A WELL-known part of the Kidderminster skyline has disappeared following the demolition of the Market Street multi-storey car park.

Work is now under way to clear the site in preparation for the construction of the new £9 million state-of-the-art Kidderminster College campus which will move from its present site in Hoo Road.

The demolition by controlled explosion was set off by Derek Harrison, the director of finance and administration at the college, on Sunday morning.

College principal Andrew Miller said: "Our aim is to encourage more people in Kidderminster and in Wyre Forest to participate in lifelong learning.

"The relocation will position the college right in the heart of town and we hope the residents of Kidderminster will increasingly sees us as an invaluable resource."

Construction on the new site will begin in early December with completion expected by 2003. The college will feature a new learning centre with purpose-built facilities for art and design, media studies, hairdressing and beauty therapy, as well as the performing arts.

There will be recording studios, rehearsal spaces and a small theatre and improved nursery and other student support services.

As part of its own transport plan, the college will be encouraging students to leave cars at home and use public transport to alleviate congestion in the town centre.