In the past few weeks, specialist wrecking teams have been brought in to clear the old Prestolite factory on Cleveland Road, where developers Bellway Homes want to build 116 apartments.

Despite earlier criticism from residents, local people say the work has gone ahead without incident.

Linda Williams, who lives close to the site, said: "I think we should commend the demolition team because there has been very little nuisance caused by all the work.

"People were worried that there would be a lot of dust and noise but so far there hasn't been any real problems. The workers have started and finished at a reasonable time every day and it looks as though they are nearly finished with the demolition work.

"Once that is finished they will have to clear the site, which could take some time."

The Prestolite factory closed its doors for good in 2005, laying off a total of 81 workers. The firm said they were transferring their work, mainly re-manufacturing old auto-electric components such as starter motors and alternators, to China where costs are just a third of those in Britain.

Homebuilders Bellway Homes, who first expressed an interest in the site 18 months ago, undertook a consultation exercise with local residents following discussions with the local authority in May.

Official plans to build still have not been submitted.