Demands have increased for the derelict former Reyrolle building in Hebburn to be demolished.

The seven-storey complex, which towers over Hebburn Metro station and much of the town centre, was once home to more than 200 Department of Social Security staff.

But the building has been subject to vandalism in the three years it has stood empty, triggering calls for it to be flattened.

The demolition plans have been complicated by the close proximity of the Reyrolle building to rail and Metro lines.

Now, owners Persimmon Homes have devised demolition plans, which will be unveiled to Hebburn councillors and residents this month.

The plans will be revealed at a meeting of Hebburn community area forum, at the Iona Club, in Station Road, Hebburn, on Monday, September 21, at 10am.

Forum chairman Coun John McCabe said: "Persimmon Homes will make a short presentation, at the meeting, about the methodology behind the demolition plans.

"One approach involves knocking the building down and using a crusher on-site to break up the material, before reusing it elsewhere.

"The other method would see the site flattened and lorries taking the material away.

"There could be issues for residents with both approaches, so we will have to consult with people before making a decision."

Demolition of the Reyrolle building, which was built in the 1960s, will take 20 weeks.

A planning application will be submitted soon by Persimmon Homes, and work could possibly start before Christmas.

Coun McCabe added: "The site is part of the redevelopment plans for Hebburn town centre. It is hoped housing and a rest home will be built here."