| One in a series of views which shows the demolition of the former "Automasters" engineering works based in Hyde, Cheshire. This long established company was located on a site off Manchester Road near the town centre. The industrial architecture was varied with the oldest section being a former cotton mill, followed by more recent offerings. The focal point of the whole complex was the splendid offices and gatehouse building which with its large electric clock and "Automasters" neon sign on the roof was a notable landmark in the area. This steel framed, ferro-concrete structure with its large expanse of glass and stainless steel trim seemed to exude the confidence and optimism of British engineering which nowadays seems to be short supply. Unfortunately, it was not to last. The works were closed down and after a period of dereliction, work on its demolition finally commenced in 2008. Here, in its final few weeks of existence, a hydraulic shear systematically rips this iconic building to pieces. |
