Manchester building collapse sparks earthquake panic as 500 flee

Emergency responders work through building debris, symbolizing disaster response efforts (Illustrative image - AI generated) Upday Stock Images

Part of a Manchester city centre building collapsed during scheduled demolition work on Friday afternoon, sending scaffolding crashing into the River Irwell and forcing the evacuation of approximately 500 people from surrounding buildings. The dramatic incident at Alberton House off Bridge Street caused earthquake-like tremors that shook nearby structures and prompted widespread safety concerns.

George Jones, founder and owner of Cardinal House business centre next door, described the terrifying moment: "It felt and sounded like an earthquake. People have left because they don't feel safe. The scaffolding fell in the river and building was moving."

The 52-year-old building was vacant and scheduled for demolition when one side collapsed, according to Metro reports. Jones, who bought and converted the neighbouring building into a business centre, said he had to evacuate multiple businesses for the day despite receiving no prior safety warnings about the demolition work.

"We were aware of the renovations for sometime, but never been told that we would be in fear of safety or need to evacuate," Jones said. "When we went outside it looked like all smoke."

Emergency response and safety

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service responded to the scene at 2:50pm with one fire engine from Manchester Central attending St Mary's Parsonage. No injuries were reported in the incident, and the fire service has since left the scene after handing the matter over to building control.

Witnesses described the panic as the collapse unfolded. One person said: "We were shaking and we didn't know if the building was coming down, then we saw the plumes of dust."

Another witness working nearby reported a "strong earthquake like feeling" as surrounding buildings were evacuated and emergency services arrived at the scene.

Building's history and redevelopment

The building previously housed a law firm until 2021 and had suffered damage from an IRA bombing at nearby Parsonage Gardens, Metro reports. The structure spans from Bridge Street around to St Mary's Parsonage in the city centre.

Commercial property giant Bruntwood has plans to replace the demolished building with an ambitious 18-storey landmark office development. The new building will feature modern office space as part of ongoing Manchester city centre redevelopment projects.

The incident highlights the challenges of major demolition work in densely populated city centre areas, where safety protocols must account for nearby businesses and residents.

Sources used: "Manchester Evening News", "Birmingham Mail", "Metro", "Daily Star", "Mirror" Note: This article has been created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).