DEMOLITION has started on the exterior of Club 2000, with the building expected to disappear within two weeks.

Contractors began work pulling down the east side of the building, in Scunthorpe, yesterday.

Work had previously been carried out to tear down the inside of the complex, with Clugston's contractors now demolishing the exterior of the controversial building.

Ken Cross, owner of KM Cross car showroom, which sits next to Club 2000 in Church Square, said he felt the short-term inconvenience would be made worthwhile by an improved landscape.

He said: "Although there will be dust and noise created for a couple of weeks by the demolition, it will eventually enhance the most historic and upmarket part of the town centre.

"The building was out of keeping with the area I felt, and sits in a prime position which could be put to much better use.

"The space that will be created can be used for events and will also create an area that is more attractive to visitors coming in from Brigg Road."

Shoppers reported dust being blown into the town centre during the morning.

Lisa Holden, 22, of Warwick Road, Scunthorpe, said: "I've noticed there's been a lot of dust around over the past couple of hours but I didn't realise it was because of Club 2000.

"It' been a little annoying when it gets in your eyes so hopefully it won't be going on too long."

Work to pull down the building is expected to last around four weeks, at which point local firm Clugston's will move in to renovate the area.

Councillor Mark Kirk, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: "It is essential that we demolish the former nightclub to make way for future investment.

"The large open event space in Church Square is just a short walk from The Foundry and The Parishes shopping centres and all the other shops.

"We are looking to create a programme of events and activities throughout the year that will attract local people and visitors to the town centre and shop."

As reported, the Club 2000 structure is being knocked down in a bid to prevent taxpayers from having to pay £45,000 a year in maintenance costs.

The club has stood empty for the past four years after it was bought by North Lincolnshire Council for £800,000 using cash from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

Since then, it has cost YF £45,000 a year to maintain, but will now make way for a new space for events.

Viewpoint

Do you think Club 2000 should be demolished – and what would you like to see replace it? Email viewpoint@scunthorpetelegraph.co.uk or write to Viewpoint, Scunthorpe Telegraph, 4-5 Park Square, Laneham Street, Scunthorpe, DN15 6JH.