Task force launched to address Preston’s empty buildings

Following recent incidents at St Joseph’s Orphanage and 131 Church Street, which caused much disruption within Preston and the wider community, the Council has set up a dedicated Task Force to address empty and derelict buildings and the growing concerns around safety.

In collaboration with Preston Police and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, the Task Force will focus on ensuring building owners take responsibility for the safety and security of their properties. The team will meet regularly to monitor the situation and put pressure on building owners to prioritise the safety and security of their property.

Councillor Valerie Wise, Cabinet Member for Community Wealth Building, said: “We will not tolerate the behaviour of developers and building owners who do not take responsibility for the safety of their property seriously, putting people and buildings at risk.

“Some of these properties are part of Preston’s heritage and owners have a duty to protect buildings of historic importance, so the Council will take formal action if this is not happening.

“We want to encourage responsible development and to work alongside building owners to help improve the city but also look to bring back much of Preston’s heritage through investment.”

Preston is on the cusp of exciting transformation, with significant investment aimed at creating a new cultural quarter, implementing a City Living Strategy, and enhancing the High Street, which is already performing better than many others across the country.

The Council is working closely with responsible developers to deliver housing, office space, and leisure facilities to meet the needs of residents and visitors. However, the neglect of some empty buildings in the city centre has resulted in significant challenges, including fire risks, water damage, and anti-social behaviour.

Despite the risks, some individuals continue to trespass on these sites, causing further damage and distress to the community. The Council is urging the public to stay away from unsafe buildings and report any suspicious activity to the Police on 101 or for a fire or other emergency by calling 999.

Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety, added: “Taxpayers should not be footing the bill for securing these sites. Building owners must step up, and the Task Force will ensure they understand their responsibilities. This includes taking enforcement action and prosecuting those who flout their legal obligations. Preston deserves better.”

The Police have also issued a warning to trespassers, stating: ''Access to these buildings is restricted for a reason. They are unsafe to enter and can pose a significant risk to those who trespass. Unfortunately, some have become an attraction for people who are not aware of the dangers that they pose.

“We would like to remind building owners that it is their responsibility to prevent access to these dangerous sites. Our officers will continue to conduct regular patrols of the area”

The neglect of these sites also places additional strain on emergency services and Council resources, increasing costs for taxpayers. The Task Force will work with private property owners to ensure these buildings are secured and maintained, whilst helping to protect Preston’s historic and cultural heritage.

To demonstrate the Task Force’s commitment to tackling empty buildings in the city, enforcement measures have been, and will continue to be, taken against building owners to protect public safety, preserve historic properties, and prevent further anti-social behaviour, using all legal powers available to the Council.

To raise awareness among young people about the dangers of entering vacant buildings, Preston City Council is collaborating with schools, the police, and youth services to deliver key safety messages and promote property safety education.