An unsafe building is being demolished in Preston city centre.
Preston City Council ordered the buildings at 12-14 Avenham Street to be tumbled.
Work began this week after an engineering survey found the building posed a danger to the public.
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The buildings were described as having been vacant for a considerable period and had seen incidents of trespass.
The city council confirmed they had issued a warning notice to the property owner under Section 77 of the Building Act.
A spokesperson for the city council said the owner responded promptly and initiated account.
A city council spokesperson said: “In response to the growing concerns around safety and the issue of empty and derelict buildings within the city centre, 12-14 Avenham Street was identified as a building at risk by the Council. Although it is not listed, the building has remained vacant for a considerable period, and despite its deteriorating condition and associated risks, incidents of trespassing have continued despite measures taken by the Council to restrict access.
“In March 2025, safety concerns were raised following the partial collapse of brickwork at the southwest corner of the building, fronting Old Cock Yard, along with a significant bow in the gable wall. As a result, the Council appointed a structural engineer to assess the building’s condition. The engineer determined the building to be unsafe, with demolition required to remove the danger posed to the public.
“The Council served a warning notice to the property owner under Section 77 of the Building Act. The owner responded promptly and initiated action. Works have since begun on site to prepare for the demolition, which is scheduled to commence this week.”
Planning permission is already granted for the site for a five-to-seven storey building comprising a 42-bed apart-hotel and restaurant unit – although updated plans have recently been lodged.
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