THE landscape of Orchard Park is set to change once again in what could be a defining year for the estate.
Three empty tower blocks on the north Hull estate will be demolished next spring to revitalise the area and make way for new housing.
Other changes that are set for 2013 include the development of a new 50-bed care centre as well as new shopping complex.
Councillor Terry Geraghty said residents on Orchard Park have a lot to look forward to in the New Year.
"It is a very exciting time for everyone on the estate," he said.
"People are often a bit scared of change but Orchard Park has a lot to offer and these changes will only add to that.
"This next year will see some fantastic new facilities added to the estate, to complement what it already has, such as Thomas Ferens Academy and The Orchard Centre.
"I am very proud to have represented this area for nearly 40 years, so to be able to give residents all these things to look forward to in 2013 is something I am very happy about."
The Milldane and Ashthorpe blocks are now vacant after all their remaining council tenants were rehoused earlier this year.
Cllr Geraghty said the flats hold fond memories for many people.
"Of course, there have been people in favour of and people who have opposed the demolitions but now everyone affected has been rehoused, they are happy," he said.
"Residents are also now moving back into the Gorthorpe block, which has been fully refurbished."
Work has been carried out to decommission the Milldane and Ashthorpe blocks, along with a smaller block on the estate.
Final stripping out and preparatory work is due to begin on Monday, January 14.
Frank and Anne Oxley, of Orchard Park Road, said it will be sad to see the blocks go.
Mrs Oxley, 64, said: "They have been here as long as I can remember, so it will be a shame to see them demolished but it is nice to hear the plans the council has for the estate.
"This area tends to get a bit of bad press about its appearance so, hopefully, the new developments will help boost the image of the estate."
NPS Humber Ltd is seeking permission to demolish the high-rise flats using controlled explosions and has set a finishing date for September 20.
Work on the new shopping centre is expected to be completed by the end of next year.
