Councillor Calls for Enhanced Security at Historic Preston Orphanage Following Vandalism and Arson

A city councillor has voiced concerns regarding the future of a Grade-II listed former orphanage, citing incidents of vandalism and a recent arson attack. St Joseph’s Orphanage, located on Mount Street in Preston, consists of six structures that were erected on the site over a span of nearly 85 years. The oldest building dates back to 1872, and the premises operated as a care home until its closure in 2007, remaining vacant since then. The property owner stated that 24-hour security had been engaged and that they had “done what we can”. Preston city councillor Salim Desai expressed his belief that much of the vandalism was being perpetrated by children from outside the town. On 4 November, a fire broke out, which required firefighters more than 15 hours to extinguish, causing damage to the building. Desai urged the owner to implement further measures to secure the site. He said: “This is the heritage of Preston.” “We’ve pushed hard for them to secure the building so this damage doesn’t occur, but they don’t seem to get it. “There is a hole in the boarding put up to cover the windows and children can climb in.” A significant portion of the site is designated for demolition, and owners Zimrock Ltd confirmed that contractors were on site and prepared to commence work. A Zimrock Ltd spokesman commented: “There’s 24 hour security on site and we’ve done what we can. “There are hoardings around the site, but if someone is determined to get in, they will.” The orphanage commenced operations in 1872, funded by a wealthy local widow. It was managed by nuns, with a section of the site later becoming a hospital known as Mount Street Hospital. The orphanage closed in 1954, and the hospital on the site ceased operations in 1982.