Intruders ‘risking lives’ on Chorley disused retail site (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Intruders ‘risking lives’ on Chorley disused retail site

4:18pm Wednesday 1st February 2012 in Chorley By Chris Gee, Reporter

Intruders are “risking their lives” entering a huge disused retail site in Chorley, police have warned.

The former QS Fashions building on the corner of Pall Mall and Bolton Street, which was vacated last year, has been targeted by youths breaking in on several occasions.

During the latest incident, at around 5.30pm on Saturday, January 28, three boys, aged 14, 13 and 12, were arrested after police heard “explosions” coming from the site.

Officers said they suspected youths had entered the building by ripping away boards from the main entrance.

Inside a small bonfire had been set alight and aerosol cans had been thrown on to the blaze.

The fire service attended the blaze and no major structural damage was reported.

The site, which was occupied for several years by discount clothing retailer QS, is due to be demolished this year to make way for a long-awaited Asda superstore, with a view to opening in 2013.

The retail giant met council officials in Chorley just before Christmas to finalise details of the development, which got planning permission more than a year ago.

Construction of the 44,000 sq ft Asda store, with a petrol filling station and 440 space car park, is set to begin in May.

Sgt Kevin Mountain, of Chorley neighbourhood police said the latest incident was picked up due to increased patrols in the vicinity.

He said: “Since the building has been unoccupied we’ve seen a number of break-ins, I suspect from youths who have broken down boards securing the premises.

“PCSOs on patrol heard explosion noises from the building on Saturday and chased three suspects on foot who they saw fleeing from the premises.

“There are untold hazards in the building and I would warn everyone to stay away.

“It’s simply not safe.

“I’d also ask parents to make sure they know where their children are at all times.”

A 14-year-old boy from the Chorley area is due to appear before Chorley Youth Court on February 14 charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

The two other boys arrested at the scene were released without charge.