MP raises safety fears over derelict college buildings

WEST Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper has raised concerns about the safety of the abandoned former West Lancashire College buildings after an urban explorer gained entry.

The buildings, next to the former Glenburn College, have been unused for years.

Recently, members of the public have become concerned after an urban explorer was able to gain entry to the buildings to take pictures.

Ms Cooper said: “Local residents are very concerned that these buildings appear once again to be left insecure and members of the public can freely gain access.

“This is extremely dangerous as anyone who enters runs the risk of causing serious harm to themselves and others.

“Indeed having open access leaves the buildings vulnerable to vandalism or arson, again leaving local residents and those who have to deal with the resultant damage or injuries unnecessarily at risk as well.

“These buildings need to be made safe and secure urgently and those responsible need to outline what the future holds for the buildings and the site as a whole, which presumably includes demolition.

“I have written to West Lancashire College and their parent, NCG, seeking an urgent update and action, as well as to the Health and Safety Executive, police, borough and county councils.”

In September 2011, the college changed its name to West Lancashire College and moved to a new £42.8m campus.

“The site now stands abandoned with its windows boarded up, and there are no immediate plan for its future.

A West Lancashire College spokesperson said: “NCG are working closely with Lancashire County Council on the future use of the land. In parallel to this, NCG have a 24hr physical security presence on site and associated security office/welfare unit.

“We have also installed security fencing around the perimeter of the buildings and associated land to deter further vandalism, arson and other criminal activities.

“The perimeter fence line and associated buildings are routinely inspected by the security presence and if any undetected damage has occurred, it is reported and repairs are completed.

“These steps have been in place several months and have resulted in a dramatic reduction in incidents and the associated attendance of emergency services. We regret this recent high profile incursion and are confident our steps are robust.

“This specific attack was determined and planned by an individual who specialises in this type of criminal activity.

“Our security team have been briefed on this incident and will hopefully deter any future incidents.”