The redevelopment of Mount Street in Preston, England, is facing significant delays due to safety concerns following a fire that destroyed a former orphanage. Asbestos presence complicates demolition plans, prompting concerns from heritage groups and local businesses.
The redevelopment of Mount Street in Preston , England, has been stalled due to safety concerns stemming from a fire that ravaged the former St. Joseph's Orphanage. The buildings, deemed dangerous by authorities, are awaiting demolition, but the process has been delayed due to the presence of asbestos. Zimrock Ltd, the building's owner, has received approval from Preston City Council for demolition but is awaiting clearance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to proceed.
This delay could see Mount Street closed for much of 2025, causing frustration among heritage campaigners and impacting local businesses.Heritage group Preserving Preston's Heritage, concerned about the deterioration of the site, is advocating for increased security to prevent further damage or unauthorized access. They argue that the longer the building remains derelict, the less salvageable its historic components become. Mark Whittle, manager of Preston's Business Improvement District, acknowledges the necessity of public safety while emphasizing the detrimental effects of the prolonged closure on city center businesses and the overall flow of pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Security measures have been heightened at the site since last year's fire, with developers Zimrock reporting increased patrols and more frequent inspections of vacant buildings. This was implemented in response to both the St. Joseph's fire and a subsequent blaze on Church Street, which led to the demolition of several buildings. A spokesperson for Preston City Council stated that the site owner's demolition contractor is actively collaborating with the HSE to obtain the necessary permits for safe demolition, a process complicated by the presence of asbestos. The council anticipates that HSE approval is imminent, allowing the contractor to begin work. Meanwhile, the closure of Mount Street has necessitated the suspension of the Fishergate bus lane, resulting in an estimated £70,000 in lost revenue for Lancashire County Council. The county council maintains that the closure is essential to ensure public safety and prevent motorists from being fined while the Mount Street site remains hazardous
ASBESTOS DEMOLITION FIRE DAMAGE HERITAGE LOCAL BUSINESSES MOUNT STREET PRESTON
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