Artists’ impressions unveiled for renovation of Preston’s red phone boxes

Plans for the red phone boxes, by Studio John Bridge architects

Plans for the renovation plans of Preston’s red phone boxes have been unveiled.

Preston City Council recently gave the green light for the refurbishment of the nine iconic red phone boxes on Market Street.

Situated outside the former post office building on Market Street, the phone boxes were acquired by Preston City Council in 2021 and in December 2023 an application was submitted for Listed Building Consent for their refurbishment.

They were originally designed by British architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in 1932 to mark the Silver Jubilee of the Coronation of King George V in 1935. The kiosks are the longest line of red telephone boxes in the UK and are Grade II listed.

John Bridge from Studio John Bridge Architects has provided architectural drawings for the phone boxes which informed the application for Listed Building Consent.

He said: “I am delighted to have supported the Council’s work in restoring these historic assets. As a proud Prestonian myself, I am passionate about the City’s cultural heritage and it will be great to see them brought back to life and safeguarded for future generations to enjoy.”

Chris Hayward, Director of Development and Housing at Preston City Council, said: “The red telephone boxes are very special to the city and are an iconic and unique piece of the city’s history. We are in a fortunate position to finally be able to restore them sympathetically and we hope to have some wonderful new uses for them in the near future, working with local businesses and the creative arts.”

John Chesworth, Chair of the Towns Fund Board said: “It will be great to see the telephone boxes brought to life, bringing a vibrancy to the city centre and another reason to visit the historic and cultural Harris Quarter when they are completed.”

The council will now seek contractor to undertake the work. It is hoped that the restoration will commence before the end of the year and it is expected that the phone boxes will be transported off site for the period of restoration.

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