Landmark Tesco is bulldozed

A former 24-hour Tesco will be totally demolished within the next week after work started to tear down the landmark supermarket building.

Demolition began at the front entrance and cafe part of the store, at Burnt Tree Island, with the roof being removed first.

The area which used to house the cash machines has also been removed.

Work has now started on bringing down the main section of the building

The storerooms at the back of the site are to be taken down last because they contain refrigeration pipes which have to be cleared of gas. The iconic clock tower remains standing today — but is set to be taken down shortly. Tesco bosses said as much care as possible was being taken so materials could be used again.

Manager Peter Vinnicombe, who was in charge of the store for 18 years since it first opened, said it was "very emotional" to see the store taken down.

"Over the years it became a landmark in this part of Dudley and I think residents will miss it," he said.

Contractors have scheduled the demolition to take around a week to complete.

A new larger Tesco will be built on the site and will open in the Autumn.