Bethany Project is levelled

One of Stafford's worst eyesores which has blighted Newport Road for more than two years has been levelled to the ground.

The piece-by-piece demolition of the old Bethany Project saw the controversial hostel for the homeless reduced to rubble over the weekend.

The full removal of the old building should be completed by the end of May. Then, Midland Heart will be building a £2.5 million replacement 32-bedroom hostel complex that will incorporate the adjoining former Eagle pub.

The old hostel has been shut since 2005 and has suffered several arson attacks.

It was forced to close after police-backed complaints over high levels of criminal activity and anti-social behaviour associated with its tenants, who were accused of blighting the nearby park and rail station.

The £2.5 million replacement complex to be called The Eagle has been plagued with delays.