RESIDENTS of Southport are being asked to ensure that their children and teenagers understand the risks of entering derelict buildings. Merseyside Police have also stressed that they risk being arrested if they are found to be committing criminal damage. This warning follows a number of incidents within the area.
The dedicated PCSO for the Cambridges Ward area of Southport, Chris, has issued the following message:- "Recently we have had a number of reports of youths going onto the site of the derelict old Hesketh Centre building, located at the junction of:- Albert Road and Park Road West. The building was subject to a fire some months ago. As a result of the fire damage, the derelict building is now in a dangerous condition and is unsafe for anyone to enter. Anyone entering the building is taking a great risk with their personal safety and the safety of anyone with them. Further damage caused makes the building even more unsafe. We are currently liaising with the private company responsible for the security of the building and for operating the CCTV on the site. Parents, please ensure children and teenagers understand the risks they will be taking by going inside this or any other derelict building and the risk of arrest if they are found to be committing criminal damage. Please especially ensure that any family members who may be drawn to 'urban exploring' get this message. Also, between the hours of:- 00.30 and 01: , on:- Monday, 28 July 2025, the Victorian shelter on the Promenade, opposite Knowsley Road, was destroyed by fire. At this time we do not know if this has any connection to recent damage at the Hesketh Centre site, but I would like to appeal for any:- CCTV/Dashcam footage or witnesses in the immediate area of the shelter. If you saw anyone in that area between:- 12:30 am and 01:15am on:- Monday 28, July 2025, or have CCTV etc, that captured anyone in the area at the time, please report it on:- 101 and we will arrange to collect the footage from you. We will be increasing patrols in the area and will be liaising with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service's Fire Investigators over the cause of the fire. Finally, always dial 999 if you see anyone acting suspiciously and who you believe may be attempting to start fires. Southport Police Station operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Make the call, and we will respond."
