York House, Thorpe Edge: Demolition of flats has begun

Machinery is now in position and beginning to tear down York House, on Idlethorp Way in Thorpe Edge.

Demolition of York House on Thorpe Edge began this week (Image: Newsquest)

In 2022, social housing provider Incommunities announced plans to decommission the eight-storey building, and residents moved to other properties.

Last year, an application to demolish the building, which included 112 flats and a shop, was submitted.

The work is expected to be finished by the end of this year.

Demolition of York House on Thorpe Edge began this week (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson for Incommunities said this week: “The latest is that the demolition of York House is ongoing and is expected to be completed towards the end of this year.”

In May, the housing provider spoke about plans for the demolition.

Demolition of York House on Thorpe Edge began this week (Image: Newsquest)

At the time, an Incommunities spokesperson said: "We are pleased to announce that a contractor has been appointed for the long-awaited demolition of York House flats.

"The eight-storey building in Thorpe Edge housed 112 flats until it was decommissioned last year due to no longer being fit for purpose.

York House before the demolition (Image: Newsquest)

"We will now be working with Metropolitan Demolition to demolish York House.

"The preparation work for the demolition is due to start in early May, with the main demolition expected to take approximately five months to complete."

Graeme Scott, executive director of development and assets from Incommunities, said: “People living near York House have been waiting for news of what was happening with the building, so we’re really pleased to let everyone know that they will shortly see work beginning on the site.

York House when it was first built in 1957 (Image: Newsquest)

“Alongside the start of the demolition of York House, we’re currently preparing proposals for the future redevelopment of the site.

"Once the proposal is ready, we will consult with local residents to get their feedback and input on the plans.”

While demolition work is ongoing the site will be secured and closely monitored by security.

Incommunities indicated the demolition contractor would be in touch with residents to keep them informed.

The housing provider previously said homes in York House had become harder to let and less desirable, and were costly to heat and maintain.

The Telegraph & Argus previously reported on concerns raised by residents of the flats over the condition of the large residential building.

 “Our long-term intention for the land at York House is to explore options for the development of new affordable housing," said Incommunities. 

“We are committed to investing in homes that meet the needs and aspirations of our customers and communities in the long term, by providing high quality, energy efficient homes that are truly affordable for local people.”