Manchester University is in the process of removing its Owens Park Tower, constructed in 1965. It is said to be no longer suitable for the 21st century, although 25 years of that century have already elapsed!

The phrase ‘not fit for the 21st-century’ is frequently used but rarely explained. The tower is an iconic structure visible from all around. Many famous residents remember the time they including Rik Mayall, The Chemical Brothers, and others.

The tower belongs to Manchester University and it’s their decision what they do with it! However, I’m very curious to know more about the exact decision-making process when weighing up the pros and cons of retaining and renovating it or demolishing it and building anew.

Some websites use the term ‘destroy’ rather than demolish, to include cases where buildings have been damaged in war or maybe earthquakes. I decided to use it here because I’ve find the word demolish is kind of euphemism. 

When you demolish building you’re destroying it, plain and simple, for better for worse, for good reasons or for bad reasons.