Concerns had been raised before Oldham building collapse
It's been revealed concerns had been raised about the safety of a building in Oldham town centre before it collapsed.
It's been revealed concerns had been raised about the safety of a building in Oldham town centre before it collapsed.
The council's released a statement saying:
"Oldham Council has moved swiftly to demolish a privately-owned building because of a serious threat to public safety in the town centre.
"On Thursday, August 11, Building Control officers had been alerted to concerns about the vacant King’s House building at 33-37 King Street by the owner of a nearby business.
"They were on site within minutes and an inspection found the building to be in a dangerous condition. That verdict was also later confirmed during an inspection by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
"The block was immediately cordoned off and the surrounding area on King Street was closed to traffic and pedestrians at 5pm on Thursday.
"The Manchester-based owner of King’s House was also contacted. He was served with a legal notice and directed to appoint a Chartered Structural Engineer to carry out a detailed report.
"Earlier today (August 12) at around 11.30am the building suffered a partial collapse.
"Colleagues from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Greater Manchester Police both attended the scene quickly to assist in evacuation of the surrounding area.
"King Street was immediately closed in both directions. Traffic diversions were put in place and remain in force until further notice.
"King’s House was now in danger of imminent and total collapse so officers carried out a controlled demolition at 5pm. "