Forgotten factory demolished in Peterborough
A forgotten factory that has marked the Peterborough skyline for over 100 years has finally been demolished.
The old Perkins factory was razed on the weekend after standing derelict since the last manufacturer pulled out 10 years ago.
It has proven contentious among locals, some of whom have condemned it as an eyesore and others who have not wanted to see the intricate history of the building lost.
Demolition contractors moved on to the site on Lincoln Road, Walton on Friday.
Local councillor Nick Sandford, said, “It has been derelict for a long time now and something needed to be done about it.
“There were concerns about asbestos and Peterborough Council had to make sure the demolition was carried out properly.”
However, despite the concerns Councillor Sandford said it was sad to see a piece of history demolished.
He said: “A lot of people in the city either used to work in the factory, or know someone who did. There is a good bit of sentimentality about it."
The factory was built before the First World War, manufacturing aeroplane parts, before being bought by Perkins in 1957, to make mechanical components.
They announced its winding down in 1985, but saved it – and its 375-strong workforce and £18 million turnover - in 1988 after a £3 million investment.
It was sold for £11.7 million in 1989 to The Parkfield Group, which ran it as Triplex, making car parts but closed for good 10 years ago.
