Builders are tearing down the controversial Maison d’Or, on Market Hill, because the building allegedly did not meet the standard expected by its owner, Body Shop tycoon Ian McGlinn.
It is unclear what prompted the multi-millionaire and 1(1)K resident to pull down the property, but he is believed to be carrying out the work at his own expense.
Planning permission was granted for the development in 1998, and work started the same year.
Maison d’Or was weeks from completion in 2001 when a dispute began between Mr Mc-Glinn and the original builders, UK-based firm Waltham Contractors.
Waltham walked off the site and the property has stood empty since.
