These are some of the UK’s ugliest buildings in living memory that have been demolished or await the wrecking ball.
While some notable former landmarks are much mourned, few tears were shed when these buildings were torn down or when their demolition was announced.
Several of them were voted as being among the nation’s ugliest buildings, with one memorably described as the ‘mouth of hell’ and another likened to a ‘mildewed lump of elephant droppings’.
They include an old police station, a shopping centre, a nightclub, and several former government buildings.
Most were built during the 60s or 70s, though one was completed as recently as the noughties.
Some were even hailed as architectural gems before public opinion turned against them.
Of course, all had their admirers, albeit usually very much in the minority and never enough to save them from oblivion.
Do you think any of these buildings should have been spared, and what do you believe is the ugliest building still standing where you live? We’d love to hear from you. Email [email protected] with your thoughts.
13. Sunderland Civic Centre
The old Sunderland Civic Centre divided opinion. To many citizens, it was a carbuncle of a building, but others hailed it as a fine example of Brutalist architecture. There were mixed feelings when it was demolished in 2024 to make way for housing. | National World Photo: National World