Video shows demolition underway at Wakefield's Chantry House

Wakefield Council last year confirmed plans to demolish the eyesore office block, on Kirkgate, and replace it with 80 new homes.

The government's lockdown, designed to contain the spread of coronavirus, led to a delay in the plans earlier this year.

But demolition at the site has now begun, and a portion of the building has been completely removed.

Coun Darren Byford, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Regeneration, said: “After a small delay due to the government restrictions, we’re delighted that the demolition of Chantry House is now well underway - marking the next stage of the regeneration of Kirkgate, which is a key gateway to the city centre.

“The Snooty Fox has already been demolished and we expect that Chantry House will also be demolished by the end of June. Work will then begin on some temporary environmental improvements at the site.

“It is an exciting time for this part of the city as we are in discussions with developers about opportunities that could be developed on this site, which would support our longer term economic strategy of achieving prosperity and growth for our district.”

As part of the Kirkgate regeneration, the popular Snooty Fox pub was also demolished earlier this year.

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