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Crumpsall Metrolink Station

The ticket office was closed when the railway was taken over by Metrolink to operate its 'supertram' system between Bury and central Manchester.

Since then ticketing has been provided through machines and the area has provided a shelter for gangs who intimidate passengers and vandalise the premises.

The worst incident happened last month when a woman walking through the station was set upon by a gang and pulled into the path of passing cars but drivers failed to stop and help.

The gang, including children as young as 12, confronted the woman after she stepped off a tram and was walking home at 7.30 in the evening.

They demanded cigarettes but when she refused members of the gang ran up behind her and tried to grab her bag from her shoulder dragging her into the traffic.

Platforms at the station are monitored by CCTV but an enclosed bridge linking the Manchester and Bury bound platforms and the ticketing area are not protected by cameras.

It is hoped the demolition will discourage gangs and make passengers feel safer using the system.