TWO large cranes were on their way to Liverpool yesterday to help remove the collapsed crane.

Alternative accommodation has been arranged for a total of 106 residents.

Once the damaged crane and five-tonne counter- balance have been removed, search and rescue teams will scour the rubble beneath the crushed buildings to double- check no-one is trapped.

Specialists from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) were yesterday assessing the scene to establish when it will be safe to remove the damaged machinery.

The two large cranes which are being used for the operation are an 800-tonne crane from London and a 500- tonne crane from Leyland.

Urgent checks are also being carried out on a second crane at the scene of the accident, to see if it is safe. One resident of the block of flats, who did not want to be named, said: “We have been told it could be anything up to seven days before the building manager can get into the property.

“Everyone in the building is being found a city centre apartment, as I can’t see anyone being made to travel far.

“The charted surveyors Honeybourne Kenny have been really helpful and are seeking apartments in the city centre.

“Some people, me included, spent last night with friends.”