The high rise flats at Norfolk Court in Laurieston, Gorbals, will be demolished by a controlled explosive demolition today (Sunday 8 May 2016).
The demolition is the next step in the ongoing regeneration of the Laurieston area. Phase 1 is already complete, which can be seen in the new multi award winning mixed tenure housing development neighbouring the demolition site.
The building, owned by New Gorbals Housing Association, is the last of 10 tower blocks to be “blown down” in the Gorbals since 1993.
New Gorbals Housing Association Chairperson Raymond Shannon said: “We are looking forward to the last of the demolitions in the Gorbals to make way for further phases of regeneration in Laurieston.
“Norfolk Court has been home to thousands of local residents since 1976 and is remembered fondly by many of those who lived there. Every tenant affected by demolition in Gorbals since 2002 has been rehoused here - if that is what they wished - and over 80% have chosen to remain in the Gorbals. It is a credit to the new Laurieston development that the many who have moved there from Norfolk Court are happy in their new homes.”
The tower block is situated at 5 and 17 Norfolk Court, standing at 24 storeys tall and housing 276 flats. The demolition will be carried out by Dem-Master Demolition, after several months of detailed planning with New Gorbals Housing Association, explosives specialist Safedem Ltd, Police Scotland, Glasgow City Council, regeneration specialist Urban Union, the Highways Agency, Network Rail, SPT, and engagement with the local community.
As the building comes down, it marks the end of the chapter in local history. We caught up with some local residents who moved from the high rise into the new Laurieston developments.
The Gallagher family lived in Norfolk Court for 15 years. They have fond memories of living in the block.
"We loved Norfolk Court because we were up high. We miss the view of Glasgow Green."
Although there are things that they miss about living there, they agreed that it was time for a move.
"The buildings were old, and had a lot of problems. It was for the best that they come down."
Margaret and George Campbell were delighted with their move. Margaret had lived in Norfolk Court since 1976, but said;
"I'm not looking back. I loved staying in the multi, but that's the past. We love it here, it's a magnificent flat."
If you have any questions, or would like to share your stories of life in Norfolk Court, please get in touch with Natalie by calling 0141 429 3900, or email Natalie@newgorbalsha.org.uk