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The end of an era

Damon Wilkinson
8/12/2007

IT WAS the venue which sparked many a romance. Countless couples found love on the dancefloor of the old Carlton Ballroom.

But a little slice of Rochdale history is being consigned to dust as workmen started demolishing the Great George Street venue.

Manchester Road firm Hallmark Developments has bought the nightclub for just under £1M and plan to create a multi-million development of apartments and retail units.

Managing director Chris Greaves said the company had hoped to retain the building, which had been derelict since last December when the Liquid Rock nightclub closed, but its condition meant demolition was the best option.

He added: “It was the meeting place for a lot of people and in its heyday was probably one of the best dance halls in the country. People came from miles around to go to the Carlton.

“We did look at retaining the building, but unfortunately it was just too far gone.

“Since it had been empty people had got inside and stolen a lot of copper and it meant that demolition was the best way forward.

“It is in a fantastic location and with the plans that the council has for Drake Street and the town centre it was a great opportunity.

“We would like to retain the name in some form because it is in the hearts of a lot of people.”

Workmen will take down some of the building by hand because parts of it are close to public footpaths.

More than 3,000 tons of hardcore and large quantities of steel and timber will be recycled.

Demolition firm MD John Freeley said: “It was highly unlikely the building had any viable future as a club.

“It was subject to break-ins and damage and if the decision hadn’t been taken to demolish it it would have been completely wrecked by vandals in a short space of time.”

Demolition works should be completed by February.

Once levelled the site could be used as a car park until planning permission is granted.