Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, has called on the owners of disused and neglected buildings in Plymouth to invest in them, or sell to someone who will.
He has released a Buildings at Risk List, naming 10 iconic buildings that have fallen into disuse, including The Palace Theatre, the Reel Cinema and the Cooperage on the Barbican.
Many of Plymouth’s most historic properties are derelict or otherwise neglected. The Palace Theatre on Union Street – a Victorian-era building that has served as a theatre, bingo hall, dance academy and nightclub – has been empty for 15 years and takes the top spot on the MP’s list. He says that, unless action is taken soon, these buildings could be permanently damaged or lost to a fire.
Last summer, Mr Pollard successfully challenged the Church of Scientology to secure, clean and remove fly-tipping from outside the empty Royal Fleet Club in Devonport that they own.
He will be updating the Buildings at Risk List on an annual basis, until Plymouth’s historic buildings across are brought back to life.
Luke said:
“Too many iconic buildings in our city are derelict and disused, having been left to rot by their owners. Plymouth is a proud city and we have a proud history and heritage. It is time these buildings were given a new lease of life, a fresh purpose, and a brighter future.
“These buildings tell our city’s story. Many are a century old, surviving the Plymouth Blitz and the wrecking ball of past regenerations. They’ve hosted everything from A-list concerts to sporting events to weddings. But, without investment, they are at risk of being lost forever due to fire or other damage.
“My challenge to the owners of these properties is simple: invest in these buildings or sell them to someone who will.”
Luke’s Buildings at Risk List 2022:
The Palace Theatre,
Union Street; The Royal Fleet Club,
Devonport; The Reel Cinema,
City Centre; The Pot Black Building/Mechanics Institute,
Devonport; Pounds House,
Central Park; Raglan Gatehouse,
Devonport; Great Western Hotel,
Union Street; The Cooperage, the Barbican
The Royal Bank of Scotland Building (aka the Natwest Building),
City Centre; St Simon’s Church, Mount Gould.
