Demolition has started on a landmark York building before more than 270 student flats are built in its place.
The Mecca Bingo Hall on Fishergate is being dismantled by Demolition Services Ltd.
It was appointed by the owners of the site, York-based property firms Grantside and North Star.
Chief executive of Grantside Steve Davis said: “This is a key landmark of the project to transform this site into a high-quality development, befitting of such an important gateway location into York city centre.
“As with all our sites, our aim is to promote delivery excellent developments that will improve the local environment in a sustainable way.”
Demolition will be followed by an extensive archaeological dig, before the new development can be constructed.
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The planned development includes 276 student bedrooms, landscaping and cycle parking.
The new building will be called Rialto House, after the famous cinema and venue that was on the site before it was demolished to make way for the bingo hall.
Demolition should take 15 weeks. Students should be able to move into the site in September 2024.