‘We’ll have a lovely view if it goes’
‘Eyesore’ landmark dating back to 1955 is now finally set to be removed
THIS landmark is to be removed – after decades dominating Stokeon-trent’s skyline
The gasholder on Dividy Road, Adderley Green, has been a permanent fixture since as early as 1955.
But it is no longer needed and specialists are to start the fourmonth dismantling process within weeks.
It used to play an essential role in making sure local homes had a reliable gas supply, and was filled with gas during times of low demand so it could feed into the local network of pipes at times of peak demand.
Now new techniques mean gas is compressed and stored inside pipes, which means the old gasholder can be removed from the two-acre site.
National Grid regeneration manager Hannah White said: “The gasholder served the city well, but now we can store gas in our underground pipes we no longer need the vast network of gasholders we once had.
“Local homes and businesses will still enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply.
“Removing the gasholder will be a complex job, but we’ll use highly skilled and experienced engineers to carry out the work.
“We’ll keep people informed as our work progresses.”
Nearby residents are looking forward to a nicer view in the future.
Sam Edwards used to work there and says he won’t miss it.
The 75-year-old, of Anchor Road, said: “I used to work on there when I was about 18 – and I think it should come down.
“It’s old fashioned, no gas goes through to it now, and it is an eyesore.
“It’s ugly, but I am used to seeing it there every day because I’ve lived here all of my life. It’s no use just sitting there and it closed about 20 years ago.
“It could even be turned into a car park.”
Stuart Staley, aged 70, of Anchor Road, said: “I don’t think I’ll miss it at all because it’s a bit of an eyesore. When it was full of gas it was even taller.
“It will be strange not seeing it there – and I won’t miss it. I’ve lived here for 11 years and it’s never been in use.
“It’s not a famous landmark – it’s just a lump of steel. We will have a nicer view when it goes.
“It would be nice if they could plant some wildflowers in its place, or even put in seats.
“I don’t know anybody who would object to it being pulled down.
“It’s served its purpose for generations, but now it’s surplus to requirements
“I just hope they don’t replace it with a factory or warehouse. We would have a lovely view if it goes.”
Sharon Ibbs, aged 42, from Adderley Green, added: “It’s been there that long that I’ve stopped noticing it. It will look like a blank space when it goes.
“It is a bit of a landmark and I can remember it from when I was 15. It’s been there as long as I can remember, but it is a bit unsightly.”
National Grid has applied to Stoke-on-trent City Council for permission to remove the gasholder.