First Mill chimney comes down

Just two weeks ago a bright new future awaited the historic Shannons Mill with preparation work starting on a multi-million pound scheme to transform it into offices, loft apartments and shops in the heart of Walsall.

But today a large pile of rubble lies across most of the site with work to demolish the Victorian mill now well under way. Since demolition teams moved on to the site a few days ago the mill, despite being gutted by fire, remained largely recognisable, especially with its two 100ft chimneys still in place.

But this morning it looks very different after workmen took down the most imposing of the two chimney structures in just half an hour at around 5am.

The second chimney is expected to come down in the next few days once tests have taken place to assess the stability of the land to ensure there is no danger of any part of the remaining building collapsing when the heavy machinery moves on to the site. Workmen carried out the same procedure before the first chimney came down today.

The second chimney is also expected to come down in the early hours of the morning to minimise disruption for traders who have already been heavily affected by the fire.

Karen Sands, chairman of Walsall Market Traders Association, said the loss of the mill is a massive blow to Walsall but she believes everyone will fight back.

She said: "At the moment our top priority is helping all the George Street shops, which have been the worst affected, get back on track.

"After that we will see what the developers have in mind but I'm sure the scheme they put forward will be a good one."

Roads around the George Street site, including Upper Hall Lane, were shut this morning while the work took place as a precaution meaning diversions for cars, buses and other vehicles.

The majority of George Street is expected to remain closed for several weeks while work to demolish the building, clear rubble and level the site continues.

Access is however being maintained to the car park of the new 24-hour Asda.

By Emma Tate