A dramatic sunset view of one of the chimneysA dramatic sunset view of one of the chimneys
A dramatic sunset view of one of the chimneys

Incredible photos show Stewartby Brickworks and its last remaining chimneys before demolition

The last of the iconic chimneys was demolished on Sunday, September 26

The landscape of Bedford borough has been forever changed with the demolition of the iconic Stewartby Brickworks chimneys on Sunday.

Once a bustling industrial site, producing 500 million bricks a year at its peak and employing 2,000 people, Stewartby Brickworks closed in 2008 after it was unable to achieve emission standards.

Now, owner Hanson UK plans to build 1,000 houses and a business park.

Commenting on his Facebook page, Cllr Tim Hill (Liberal Democrats, Elstow and Stewartby) said he was "totally gutted" and that he refused an invitation to press one of the demolition buttons.

Photographer Tony Margiocchi - who captured these images of the brickworks before its demolition - said: "Very mixed feelings at my end as this area has meant so much to so many in Bedfordshire. It will be sad to see them go."