STUDENTS arriving for the start of term at Bishop Auckland College witnessed an old three-storey block being demolished.
Contractors have already bulldozed the first part of the Fifties college building, which is being replaced by a £17.5m modern complex.
Now they are close to clearing a block containing classrooms, science labs and the library.
The rest of the old buildings will stay in use until the second phase of the new development is completed in 2009.
The college has enrolled more than 1,400 full time students, which is more than ever before.
Joanna Tait, principal and chief executive, said "Although we are all sad to see the old buildings go, the college is committed to working with the community.
"This new facility will help us continue to educate and improve local and regional skills."
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