The UK's tallest demolition crane, a 67m long-reach telescopic arm weighing over 200 tonnes, is being set to work on two unwanted Glasgow tower blocks as part of a regeneration effort.

The Liebherr 984C is due to demolish high-rise flats at 8 Ibroxholm Oval and 9 Ibrox Terrace in the south side over the next nine months.

The crane was first transported by three low-loaders from Birmingham to the Glasgow Housing Association (GHA) flats, where the three parts to the machine were this week being assembled.

Three blocks of flats at 5, 17 and 29 Broomloan Court are earmarked for demolition following an extensive consultation with residents through Clydeview Housing Partnership Local Housing Organisation, which manages homes in the area on behalf of GHA.

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In total, 285 flats will be brought down during the demolition, which is expected to last for around nine weeks. Each block is 21 storeys high and contains 95 flats.

A decision was taken by GHA in February 2006 to demolish and clear the three blocks following a decline in demand and high investment and running costs.

Despite the site being bordered by a rail line, the M8 motorway and roads, there are no plans for road closures or diversions.

The high flats are the latest in the Ibrox district of the city to be chomped as the 22 storey flats are brought down to earth.

A total of 198 properties will be lost under the plans, with their occupants rehoused by GHA and other social landlords.

Plans are being drawn up for the regeneration of the site, including the £7m rehabilitation of the remaining block for key worker housing.

Technical Demolition Services, which previously worked with the housing association on demolitions in Yoker and in Sighthill, is overseeing the latest project.

(BMcC/CD)