Gallery and video: End of an era demolition work begins at fire-damaged former Aldiss store in Fakenham

The demolition has started on the former Aldiss building in Fakenham town centre, after it was destroyed by fire in May 2014. Picture: Matthew Usher.

Chris Hill Saturday, June 7, 2014 11:14 AM

It was a day which changed Fakenhams townscape forever, as the historic faade of one of its most recognisable buildings crumbled into rubble.

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But as demolition work began on the fire-ravaged former Aldiss department store it also symbolised the determination to swiftly rebuild a positive future from the ashes of the disaster.

The proud, century-old landmark was among the buildings which were damaged by the devastating blaze which tore through Upper Market Place on May 25.

And after demolition experts bolstered the neighbouring properties, the process of clearing the debris from the site began in earnest today.

The Aldiss family commissioned the work which brought a 48-tonne high-reach demolition rig to the town the only one of its kind in Norfolk which used a 22m mechanical arm to ensure the unstable buildings could be dismantled from a safe distance.

Preparatory propping work ensured the structural integrity was maintained for the neighbouring Pedlars Gold store one of the towns oldest listed buildings, dating back to the 17th century. Although its damaged gable wall fell, as expected by the demolition crew, the chimney breast and frontage of the shop remain intact.

And to the rear of the building, scaffolding and boards were used to protect an ancient church wall and gravestones from the risk of falling masonry.

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Gallery and video: End of an era demolition work begins at fire-damaged former Aldiss store in Fakenham