Princess Margaret Hospital bids a final farewell as demolition commences

The final stages of erasing the former Princess Margaret Hospital from the Swindon landscape began on 13 July as mechanical diggers moved in to tear down its Main Block.

Demolition is expected to take up to five weeks, paving the way for a new development entitled Angel Ridge from Swindon-based housebuilders, Bloor Homes.

Since its creation in 1957, the Main Block has been an instantly recognisable landmark, particularly for those travelling along the M4 past Swindon.

"Princess Margaret Hospital will always have a place in the hearts and memories of the town's people," said John Lusty, regional manager for Bloor Homes. "However, while I'm sad to see the hospital go, I'm excited at the prospect of being part of the area's new future with the Angel Ridge development."

John also declared his relief at progress so far. "This is by far the biggest demolition we have ever undertaken," he said. "There have only been a couple of minor problems, but working on a project of this scale, that's to be expected. I'm pleased to say that local residents have been wonderfully understanding and gracious throughout."

Ernest Austin, local resident and nominee of the development's name, pictured, gave the signal to commence demolition. "I'm sad to see it go," he said. "I decided on Angel Ridge for all the little angels that were born here and for those people that died here."

Once demolition is completed, the site will be cleared with much of the rubble being reused in Angel Ridge's construction. "We will use much of it to level off the ground, especially where the land currently slopes down the ridge," said John.

Bloor Homes expect to begin building in October this year, with a range of properties, from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom homes in a variety of styles to follow. The hospital's foundation stone, which was laid by Princess Margaret in May 1957, is also expected to take centre stage within a memorial garden at Angel Ridge.