Locals near Vine House face rats and worry about demolition of the long abandoned tower block. Residents are awaiting a detailed plan.
The 14-story building looms over houses and a school. Built in the 1960s, it fell apart and closed in 2003, remaining empty ever since.
Locals worry about Vine House’s impact on the area, noting broken glass and more vermin. One resident, Mr. Monaghan, wants it gone because rats from Vine House get into his shed. He says the building is warm and cozy for pests.
He wants the tower torn down soon and looks forward to seeing it demolished. Another neighbor, Sally, agrees. She lived near a demolition before and worries about dust and how long it will take. She hopes it goes as planned and knows the plan.
Sally is also concerned about post-demolition plans for the site, as residents haven’t been told anything.
A 2017 deal to buy Vine House failed. Sefton Council now proposes £1.5 million for demolition. The council states that repairs cost £100,000 in three years and that cracks appeared in the building’s columns.
Demolition is the best solution, according to the council, saving money and helping the area. However, residents have not been consulted yet concerning the plans.
People on Kepler Street worry about the demolition effects. Theresa Callear wants to know the plan. She lives with her 95-year-old mother, and they can’t move out during the work.
Theresa doesn’t mind the noise during the day, as her mom watches TV with the volume high, and she is happy it’s coming down with a plan. People wonder, “What will happen to us?”
The council will consult residents before deciding on the site’s future, according to Council Member Paulette Lappin. She states that the site will benefit the community. The demolition will lower costs and create an asset for the council.
Officials say residents will get updates and that they will keep disruption minimal.