The downside of up

[Nemesis]

Oh dear:

http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/6426019.stm

Thankfully, one of the worst mistakes of the past few decades has now been demolished, Westgate House, Newcastle, here in all its horror:

http://home.freeuk.net/timarchive/html/westgate_house.htm

Great series of pics of the demo here:

http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/journallive/thejournal/tm_headline=we-love-to-watch-it-vanish&method=full&objectid=18568731&siteid=50081-name_page.html#story_continue

and here:

http://lcb.me.uk/losingit/v/demolition/westgate/theend/




Once again there is a clear view to all the pleasing buildings surrounding it... and a just setting for Stephenson's Monument.

 

[plumbers mate]

It's quite disturbing now.
I can't remember Newcastle before that horrible building was built (was it a prototype for a wind tunnel? walking benath it in high winds was vitually impossible..)
I nearly got knocked down crossing the road last week because I am used to seeing taffic coming along under the "tunnel" and was disorientated by the vast open space from where oppression has gone and a lightness now fills the air (sort of).
The demolition firm did a great job though - all the mess was hidden by white tarpaulin and the rubbish taken out of the back. The building just seemed to shrink week by week.
The views are really cool now, from Westgate Rd you can see all the way to 55Degs North --- oh, what a pity. Coming out of the Literary and Philosphical Society building, one chap fell down the steps because it all looks so different.
Drivers get into wrong lanes or get lost - it has had a big impact on the whole atmosphere of that area - We just need to stop them knocking down the NER Parcel's Office and building a new hotel (ooooh, we really need another one of those) It would make a gorgeously eccentric residence - Grand Design Kevin Wotsizname would love it....

 

[Nemesis]

55Degs North ... ah yes, where Dobson's Royal Arcade used to be...

http://www.newcastle.gov.uk/tlt/lj/lj_1_3_1.htm


http://www.timmonet.co.uk/html/body_swan_house.htm