Sunderland's historic Doxford gatehouse to be gone within weeks
The structure, which dates back to 1903, is a reminder of Sunderland's glorious shipbuilding heritage and campaigners had hoped the whole structure could be saved.
But it will be levelled as part of work to create a continuous dual carriageway between the A19 and the Port of Sunderland.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdSunderland City Council will preserve the gateway's arches and iron gates, relocating them nearby in 2021.
But the authority says it cannot justify the expense of restoring the whole building and that it is too dilapidated to save.
Campaign group Save Doxford's West Gateway had hoped the building could be restored to its former glory, without affecting the new road.
In July they were given public backing by Richard Doxford, great-grandson of the yard's founder Sir William Doxford.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdBut in an August 28 email to the group, the council confirmed: "The demolition of the gatehouse started on 5 August with the removal of the asbestos. The gates were wrapped to seal the building while the asbestos was removed.
"The asbestos removal is due for completion next week (w/c 2 Sept). Following this the remainder of the building is programmed for removal w/c 9th September."
When the asbestos is gone, demolition will start with the roof. Then the arches will be removed and put into storage.
The campaigners are angry with the decision and say they had not been kept informed of events.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdCouncil leader, Graeme Miller, said: "This council has always been very aware of our heritage and how proud people are of it.
“When it came to commemorating our shipbuilding heritage, this is exactly what we did with our award winning Keel Square and its keel line.
“It was agreed that, although the building and brickwork was in a dilapidated condition, its arch and gates could be restored and re-located alongside the new dual carriageway as public art and a memorial to our shipbuilding heritage.