This is the moment a historic building collapsed after being battered by gale-force winds from .
Late last week, cracks appeared in the building, which dates to the 1900s, but it eventually fell to pieces after strong winds ripped through the village on Friday.
Michael Haworth caught the dramatic moment the red-bricked home collapsed in Hale, Greater , on Saturday (January 25).
Michael, who jointly owns a nearby hairdresser, said the historic structure had been sitting empty for roughly two years and was last occupied by Atticus Bar.
He claimed the owner had plans to turn the site into a private medical practice. Michael said he could use the fire escape in his shop to get into a small alleyway and record the collapse.
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The building collapsed on Saturday (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Michael said: “The building was condemned on Thursday. I believe the hairdressers next door, called The Knot, were complaining that their floor was cracking so building regulations were called in.”
According to the , Trafford Council has ordered the closure of nearby businesses as a precaution and cordoned the area off. Michael said: “Atticus bar was bought by an Indian doctor. I spoke to the guy and he was going to turn it into a private medical practice.
“It has had extensive works done including a big excavation at the back which I can only assume they were going to extend the basement and possibly build on top of that. They have also dug out under the foundations of the adjoining property.
“It is an historic building and there is quite interesting architecture on the front of it. It was quite edgy watching it come down, especially being so close to it. I did wonder if it was going to come straight at me. Apparently the building has been creaking since yesterday.
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The building dates back to the 1900s. (Image: Manchester Evening News)
“Quite possibly, the situation with the building has worsened because of the storm. The road has now been closed off completely. I assume a controlled deconstruction will now take place.”
According to Trafford Council’s planning application site, the works would have retained the existing shop front main entrance and provided a separate entrance for staff and a fire exit.
The plans included four consultation rooms, a reception area, and a waiting room.
There would also be a counselling room, a new, accessible WC and shower area, an education suite, a manager’s office and an admin office.