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Commonwealth Games

Europe’s biggest ever demolition project to kick-off Glasgow’s Commonwealth Wealth Games

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By John Glenday, Reporter

April 4, 2014 | 2 min read

Glasgow’s upcoming Commonwealth Games are to get underway against the backdrop of Europe’s largest ever demolition after organisers teamed up with Glasgow Housing Association to synchronise the blow down of five blocks in tandem with the opening ceremony.

The 15 second spectacle is expected to be a big draw for an estimated global television audience of over 1bn people and symbolise ongoing regeneration efforts underway in the city.

Some commentators have questioned the decision to conflate both events, pointing that it could conjure up images of the 9/11 attacks on New York.

David Zolkwer, head of ceremonies & artistic director for Glasgow 2014 said: “It’s such a privilege to be able to share this historic and dramatic moment with the people of Scotland and the watching world. Over the course of just a few seconds the city’s skyline will be transformed forever. It’s a bold and confident statement that says “bring on the future” but it will also be an important opportunity for us to contemplate the many lives lived in the tower blocks over the last fifty years.

“By sharing the blow down with the rest of the world, I hope it will be seen as the noble, respectful and celebratory send-off that it is intended to be.”

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