BT 'cannot move' crime-hit phone box

BT said too many people still used the phone box for its intended purpose for it to be moved

A phone box reportedly used for drug-taking, sex and going to the toilet will not be removed – because people also still make calls from it.

BT Group, which operates the call box on the corner of East View and Meadow Street in Deepdale, Preston, said its hands were tied due to Ofcom rules.

The refusal to scrap or move the box – despite requests from Lancashire Police and Preston City Council – has prompted a councillor to launch a petition in a final attempt to force the telecoms company to act.

Suleman Sarwar, who represents St Matthew’s ward, where the box is located, said illicit activities were taking place yards from a nursery and community centre.

"It’s become a source of distress for so many residents – and I need to advocate for their safety and wellbeing," he said.

"I’ve spoken to parents who are genuinely worried about their children walking past that booth."

Enforcement powers

One of the panels of the booth is covered by a full-length advert, while another is up against a hedge – meaning the view passers-by have of what is going on inside is obscured.

Mr Sarwar said BT had cut off his complaints over the matter.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service understands Preston City Council has raised the issue with BT’s chief executive.

The authority has warned it could use the enforcement powers it has to deal with anti-social behaviour.

The council has also suggested relocating the phone box to nearby Deepdale Road, where it would be within sight of a CCTV camera.

A BT Group spokesperson said: "The payphone sees a high number of calls made from it and, under guidance set out by Ofcom, we’re required to provide public call boxes to meet the reasonable needs of the public."

The company urged anyone witnessing criminal behaviour to contact the police.