Council action forces builders to move into historic City Centre House

Repairs to “College House”, an historic and important listed building in Winckley Square, Preston are now underway thanks to enforcement action brought by Preston City Council

Serving the “Urgent Works Notice” on the owners of this Grade II listed building will at least ensure the building is water tight and secure – although the Council would like to see this important property brought back into full use.

The work at College House coincides with the start of the £1.2m sympathetic, yet transformational restoration works of Winckley Square, Gardens and also the inclusion of Winckley Square in the new Preston Housing Zone.

Councillor John Swindells, Deputy Leader of Preston City Council said:

“It’s good news that work has finally begun at College House. Unfortunately, the legislation surrounding Urgent Works Notices only forces owners into carrying out works that ensures the building remains watertight.

“We are hopeful the action the council has taken will focus the interest of the owner in this lovely listed building, and result in further work eventually leading to College House being brought back into full use.  It would certainly be great timing with all the investment going into Winckley Square through the various lottery funded initiatives and the Preston Housing Zone.”