A building in Manchester city center partially collapsed during demolition work, and scaffolding and debris were seen falling into the nearby River Irwell.

eEmergency services were called to Alberton House, in St Mary’s Parsonage off Bridge Street, shortly after 2.50pm on Friday (October 24). The abandoned office building, which was demolished to make way for a major redevelopment, has suffered a partial structural collapse.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed that one fire engine from Manchester Central attended the scene.

A spokesman said:“Crews were called to reports of scaffolding collapsing on a building being demolished. No one was injured and the incident is now under control.”

Manchester City Council said its building control officers were attending the site to assess safety concerns, while police cordoned off the surrounding area.

Eyewitnesses describe “earthquake-like” shaking. People working nearby reported feeling the ground shake as the structure fell.

Chloe Gallagher, who was standing near the site, told the BBC:“There was a loud collision – clouds of dust came towards us. The ground shook and people in the neighboring building ran to the windows to see what had happened.”

Another witness, George Jones, owner of the nearby Cardinal House, said about 500 people were evacuated from nearby offices.

“It sounded like an earthquake. People left because they didn’t feel safe. When I came out, it sounded like it was full of smoke.”

Several surrounding buildings were cleared as a precaution, and Bridge Street was temporarily closed while emergency services assessed the scene.

Nasik urges caution

The National Access and Scaffolding Association (NASC) issued a statement after reports emerged that scaffolders were involved in the incident.

“It is too early to comment if this accident was the result of a scaffolding failure, and NASC urges caution in making statements about the cause of the accident until investigations are completed.

Scaffolds, when properly built and maintained, should not fail.

Our thoughts are with anyone injured, affected or disturbed by this incident.

background

Alberton House, a 1970s office building overlooking the River Irwell, had stood empty for several years and was being demolished to make way for three new skyscrapers.

Greater Manchester Police and the Health and Safety Executive are expected to review the incident alongside Manchester City Council building control officers.