The ‘at risk’ Harris Institute is set for a new future – but funding questions remain

The Harris Institute was one of UCLan's original buildings Pic: Tony Worrall — The Harris Institute was one of UCLan’s original buildings Pic: Tony Worrall

An ‘at risk’ building close to Avenham and Miller Park is set to be brought back into life.

Proposals for the Harris Institute which dates back to 1849 were approved by Preston City Council’s planning committee.

Developers behind the scheme – the Harris Investment Group – said they were ‘committed’ to finding funding and partners to deliver the vision for the building to become an exhibition space with conference and café facilities.

The plans also include nine holiday lets within the grade-II listed building along with a co-working space.

A spokesperson for the Harris Investment Group said: “We are incredibly proud and excited to see our plans for the Harris Institute approved by Preston City Council. Our vision is to create a vibrant, multi-use space that serves the community, attracts visitors, and honours the legacy of this iconic landmark. We are committed to working with local stakeholders, Historic England, and future occupiers to ensure this development becomes a source of pride for Preston.”

Standing empty in Avenham Lane for more than a decade the building’s plans have been drawn up by Preston-based architect Studio John Bridge with detailed plans released in recent months.

Mr Bridge said: “I am incredibly passionate about restoring The Harris Institute to its former glory and ensuring it becomes a thriving hub for Preston once again.

“Now our application has been approved, we will be able to revive this Grade II* listed heritage asset, creating a state-of-the-art conference venue to bolster the city’s business community, a professional exhibition space for local artists, and a unique holiday let in Regent House with its beautifully restored courtyard.

“This is a crucial step in safeguarding the Harris Institute’s legacy, taking it off Historic England’s ‘Buildings At Risk’ register, and delivering much-needed spaces for gallery exhibitions, co-working, and cultural engagement. Preston deserves this, and we are delighted to secure the backing of the Planning Committee to make it a reality.”

Questions remain over the funding for the project as the Harris Investment Group say they are ‘actively seeking future occupiers’ and they are exploring funding opportunities for the restoration of the building.

In recent months the building has become a hot-spot for fly-tipping, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

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