100 Buildings 100 Years

1969: Preston Bus Station, Lancashire

Status: Listed Grade II
Condition: Fair condition
Architect: Building Design Partnership
Location: Tithebarn Street, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 1DJ

Designed by Keith Ingham and Charles Wilson of Building Design Partnership, the Central Car Park and Bus Station in Preston was listed at Grade II in September 2013 after a 15-year campaign. This included a thematic survey of transport buildings and designation selection guide by English Heritage, two attempts to list it by the C20 Society because it was threatened with demolition (2009 and 2012), support from the architectural profession and a grassroots campaign. It also attracted international attention, from the World Monuments Fund and ICOMOS-ISC20C.

I was the Society’s case officer from 2008-12, and researched and wrote the third listing application which re-opened the case and led to its listing. The building’s distinctive contribution to the Preston cityscape and the support of both heritage experts and the general public were a driving force throughout my involvement. The positive outcome constitutes a reward for the Society’s sustained advocacy of C20 architectural heritage.

by Christina Malathouni

Listing description