This image was taken when Moor Lane flats were built - in 1962 - and is a rare view from the roof of the flats looking toward the Avenham flats. In the distance can be seen the Parish Church in Church Street and next to it is the Sessions House. In the centre of the picture is the Masonic Hall and Saul Street Bathsplaceholder image
This image was taken when Moor Lane flats were built - in 1962 - and is a rare view from the roof of the flats looking toward the Avenham flats. In the distance can be seen the Parish Church in Church Street and next to it is the Sessions House. In the centre of the picture is the Masonic Hall and Saul Street Baths

31 historic retro pictures of Preston's infamous Moor Lane flats down the decades before they were demolished

By Jack Marshall
Published 13th Oct 2023, 06:00 GMT
Updated 16th Feb 2024, 13:46 GMT

Opened in 1962 and demolished in 2001, the flats remained etched into the memories of countless Prestonians.

Jutting out on the city’s skyline, the towers took two years to build and contained 288 flats which were home to more than 14,600 over the years. Sadly, they were condemned as dangerous and were scheduled for immediate demolition. Take a look at our best retro pictures of them in their heyday.

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This sight would be familiar to the hundreds of tenants Cumberland House was home to over the years

5. Moor Lane flats

This sight would be familiar to the hundreds of tenants Cumberland House was home to over the years Photo: RETRO

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The official opening of the Moor Lane flats by the Mayor of Preston Coun J Atkinson accompanied by the Mayoress Mrs Atkinson. Coun Atkinson cuts the tape to officially open the Elizabeth Street flats

6. Moor Lane flats

The official opening of the Moor Lane flats by the Mayor of Preston Coun J Atkinson accompanied by the Mayoress Mrs Atkinson. Coun Atkinson cuts the tape to officially open the Elizabeth Street flats Photo: RETRO

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This image of Moor Lane flats was taken in 1988

7. Moor Lane flats

This image of Moor Lane flats was taken in 1988 Photo: RETRO

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This drawing was prepared in 1960 and is an artist's impression of the new block of flats which are to be built in Preston on the ground between Lancaster Road and Moor Lane, Preston

8. Moor Lane flats

This drawing was prepared in 1960 and is an artist's impression of the new block of flats which are to be built in Preston on the ground between Lancaster Road and Moor Lane, Preston Photo: RETRO

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