"I think it's an eyesore": 11 derelict and abandoned Preston buildings, from run-down pubs to BHS
The past 15 years has been hard for some in Preston, with many abandoned and derelict buildings in the city centre evidence of tough times.
By Jack Marshall
Published 30th May 2023, 12:30 BST
Updated 5th Apr 2024, 17:33 BST
With the North/South divide growing and investment in former mill towns in the North dwindling, some areas and buildings in Preston’s city centre have been left to rot, leading many locals to complains about eye-sores which do little for the area’s reputation.
Corner of Deepdale Rd and St Stephen’s Rd: A former tropical fish store on Deepdale Road, this establishment has remained empty and abandoned for some years, while the rusting Range Rover with flat tyres and missing parts outside has been there for months if not years. Photo: Jack Marshall
Church Street: Sandwiched in between two other operating businesses, this lone derelict building on Church Street in the city centre is boarded up and something of an eye-sore. Photo: Google Maps
The Harris Institute: One of Preston's most iconic buildings, The Harris Institute has been listed as for sale for £350,000, having stood empty since 2014. The Grade II listed former art college was built between 1846 and 1849 and was the Preston Institution for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge – which eventually became the University of Central Lancashire. Due to the decline of the Victorian building, Historic England has kept the Harris Institute on Avenham Lane on the ‘at risk’ register of listed buildings. Photo: Neil Cross