PREPARATIONS are under way for the demolition of a familiar landmark on a city’s riverbanks.

As part of the preliminary clearance on the site of Durham University’s proposed new business school, demolition contractors have begun work on land adjoining the long-since derelict former city swimming baths, on Elvet Waterside.

The once state-of-the-art pool and wash house, which opened in 1932, has become something of a local eyesore since closing in 2008, being replaced by facilities at Durham’s Freeman’s Quay Leisure Centre.

The Northern Echo: Demolition already carried out alongside former baths siteDemolition already carried out alongside former baths site

Previous proposals for the site fell through, but the university hopes to soon win planning approval for its new business school, to replace its existing base, at Mill Hill.

Project supervisor Emma Flynn, said the chosen site for the replacement is among, “the most complex” the university will have built on, with “constraints” on all sides.

Due to the potential for flooding on the riverside site, some of the proposed new buildings will be on stilts, set back from the bankside.

The plans for the estimated £72m development are expected to go before Durham County Council next month.

The Northern Echo: Artists impression of proposed new Durham University Business School on Elvet Waterside siteArtists impression of proposed new Durham University Business School on Elvet Waterside site