Dundee has changed dramatically over the years, with many once-iconic buildings now gone. But which demolished structures do Dundonians miss the most?
A recent discussion on Reddit saw users reminiscing about lost landmarks, from historic arches to towering multis.
Alexander Street Multis
One contributor started the thread off by referring to the Alexander Street multis on Hilltown as "landmark buildings."
The two high-rise buildings once dominated the Dundee skyline and offered spectacular views of the city before they were demolished in urban renewal.
Olympia
The old Olympia swimming pool is an irreplaceable loss for many. "The new one doesn't compare," noted one commenter - a sentiment echoed in many comments that spoke to the modern facility's lack of character and nostalgia.
Robertson’s Furniture Store
Next destroyed was the Art Deco Robertson's building, which many contributors lamented was a sad loss.
It ought to have been restored and might have been excellent, stylish apartments.
The Royal Arch
Perhaps the strongest feelings were towards the loss of The Royal Arch, which at one time was situated at the entrance to this city's harbour.
Many Redditors said it would have looked awesome in front of today's Slessor Gardens. One exclaimed: "Yes, it shouldn't have been built, but it was and shouldn't have been demolished."
While some still think it went to make way for the off-ramps from the Tay Road Bridge, one user countered:
“The ramps and roads were several metres from where it stood. It was a purely political removal of something that did not fit with the modern era.
There was even a claim that The Royal Arch was the tallest of its kind in the UK and that people could climb its turrets.
"You can imagine it sandblasted, golden lit up at night—it would've been a great tourist attraction and a Dundee icon." Others agreed, saying, "Would be great if the arch was rebuilt… was a shame to lose it."
Tayside House?
While many of the buildings brought back fond memories, one Redditor was quick to call a "piss-take" on Tayside House being included.
However, another replied that while it was an "eyesore," the views from the tower were impressive. "With a bit of rework and cladding, it might have been an apartment complex.
The bigger problem was the waterfront-it stood in the way of redevelopment."
Another user also referred to the new Overgate, calling it "a lazy rework of the old one."
Dundee West Railway Station
Some of the lost railway history of the city also cropped up, with a user saying, "I miss Dundee West Railway Station." "It was a magnificent building," said another, adding how much he regretted its demolition.
Hotels, shops and schools
Others included, in nostalgic mentions, The Angus Hotel, Beechie shops, Fenwick's shop, and a wee pet shop that once sat near today's Slessor Gardens.
Of course, for those who grew up in Dundee's multis, demolition proved especially bittersweet. One commenter who lived in Carnegie multis remembered, "The view across the Tay was brilliant, with the sun skimming off the water—a painting, believe me."
Lost schools, too, were talked about, including Rainbow Primary and Mid School, while among the topics under the general heading of industry was Halley and Sons jute mill, which many will remember passing regularly on the way into town.
While Dundee's skyline continued to change with the years, it would appear many still have a lot of affection for the buildings of yesteryear.
Be it a grand arch, a teeming shopping street, or towering high-rise, these lost landmarks continue to live in memory.
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