The lucky nine-year-old has designed the winning entry in a poster competition for the demolition of the three multi-storey blocks in North Sighthill on Sunday (25 September).
As the winner of the competition he will push the plunger on the explosive charges along with local resident Maureen Murdoch and Councillor Norman Work, Vice Convenor of the Health, Social Care and Housing Committee.
Three local primary schools near the site of the tower blocks – Murrayburn, Broomhouse and St Joseph’s – took part in the poster competition.
Pupils were asked to design a poster following a presentation on safety issues around the site by demolition contractors Safedem with the winning artist landing the prize of pushing the plunger.
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Lewis said: “I am really pleased to have won the competition and can’t wait to push the button to demolish the tower blocks. It’s going to be great fun.”
Murrayburn Primary School head teacher Michael Urquhart commented: “The talks proved really popular and interesting for the children and they all enjoyed taking part in the competition.
“There were some really good entries but Lewis’ entry really stood out. I’m sure he’ll have great fun on the day bringing down the tower blocks.”
Councillor Norman Work, vice convener for housing at the City of Edinburgh Council, added: “I’m sure that Lewis will have a day to remember when he pushes the button and he fully deserves this prize as his poster is very dramatic.
“The demolition marks a new era for the regeneration of west Edinburgh and is part of our wider strategy for the future of social housing in Edinburgh which will create new properties fit for the 21st Century.”
An exclusion zone will be set up on September 25 so the demolition can be carried out safely. A local rest centre will be set up for the residents who have to leave their homes nearby.
Some roads near the buildings will be closed, parking restrictions will be in place and there will be some disruption to local bus services.
(GK)
