A former orphanage and children’s home in Fulwood is to see an extensive inspection to check its condition.
Preston City Council’s cabinet have approved undertaking a full inspection of the Harris Park buildings and park.
Owned by the Bhailok family as private residences the Harris Park is fenced off from the public.
It was previously owned and operated by the council and leased to the University of Central Lancashire until 2006 when it was sold off.
The city council ran a consultation reviewing the consultation area which is in force for the building and grounds – restricting development.
Built in 1884 it is an early example of a charitable orphanage laid out in a village style.
Council officers said more than 120 responses were received from members of the public about the buildings.
They outlined concerns with a lack of maintenance, restricted access to the park and concerns about any potential de-listing of the buildings or scrapping of the conservation area.
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This has prompted council officers to act.
A statement said: “After further discussion with the owner, the level of occupancy has been confirmed and the appraisal has been updated accordingly. It is recognised that the buildings and the park are showing signs of deterioration and as a result the appraisal recommends carrying out photographic surveys and recording which will begin with a full inspection of the buildings and the wider site. This is anticipated to commence in February 2018.
“There are no intentions or suggestions in the appraisal to de-list the buildings or to cancel the conservation area.”
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Councillors voted to back the recommendation for the full site inspection.
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