A CHIMNEY which stood for 120 years has been demolished as part of plans to transform a derelict chemical works into a modern business park.
Explosives were used to fell the chimney at the 30-acre site formerly occupied by Holliday Dyes & Chemicals at Leeds Road, Deighton.
The button was pressed by Sheila Rothery, whose teenage son, Martin, visits Martin House Hospice, at Boston Spa, near Wetherby.
Martin, who lives on Teesside, had hoped to press the button, but was too ill to attend.
However, the spectacular demolition was captured on film for him.
His mother was welcomed by Ken Morton, a director of developer Landmark Development Projects, which is spearheading the work.
Landmark is a long-time supporter of the hospice.
Work to turn the Holliday site into the Trident Business Park is well on the way, it was said. The £20m scheme will provide a 38,000sq ft headquarters and distribution centre for discount retailer Poundstretcher.
The scheme is expected to bring more than 700 jobs to Huddersfield.
Part of the site will also provide space for car showrooms and other business users.
Henrie Westlake, of property agents Knight Frank, which is handling lettings, said: "The demolition is well under way. There will also be work to clear contamination from the site."
Mr Westlake said it was hoped to have the site prepared for building work by November.
Poundstretcher wants to open its new centre next June.
