Arson fears at 'eyesore' shopping centre site

The owners of the building have arranged for the graffiti to be removed

Residents fear an "eyesore" shopping centre site could be subject to arson if actions are not taken soon.

Regular vandalism at Bretton Court, part of Bretton Centre in Peterborough, has left traders and shoppers upset and "fed up".

Smashed windows, graffiti and damage to units have been some of the issues reported, with residents calling for "swifter" action from police.

Cambridgeshire Police said dedicated patrols were taking place in the area.

Bretton Court, which currently has a number of empty units, is managed by Peterborough City Council, Cross Key Homes and Medesham Homes.

Bretton parish councillor and local resident, Collete Francis, said: "The problem of vandalism is huge.

"Residents feel forgotten by the council. The centre looks like an eyesore right now."

Repeated vandalism at Bretton Court in Peterborough has been described as an "eyesore"

The Labour councillor for Bretton ward, Richard Stangward, said he was worried one of the units could end up being set on fire.

He said the former Co-op funeral care building was broken into on Friday, with the front door being smashed in and the taps left running.

"I have been in touch with the neighbourhood policing team who understand the concerns that something needs to be done soon," said Mr Stangward.

A shop unit was broken into and taps were left running

Meanwhile, Cambridgeshire Police said there were reports a group of youths broke a fire alarm at The Cresset Centre at about 21:15 GMT on Saturday.

A Conservative councillor representing Bretton, Chaz Fenner, said: "I am arranging a meeting with traders and the policing team as people want to see more active patrols in the centre."

A group of youths broke a fire alarm at The Cresset Centre at Bretton on Saturday night

Cambridgeshire Police said: "Dedicated patrols by the local neighbourhood team are taking place to address any concerns and engage with residents who live in or visit the area."

Medesham Homes said it was working with partners to make the building safe.

A spokesperson said: "We intend to redevelop the site and we are continuing to discuss how we can work together to find the best solution for the building and the wider local community."

A spokeswoman for Peterborough City Council said: "Our Safer Communities team is arranging for the affected area of Bretton Court to be boarded up to prevent further damage and we are working with tenants and the police to ensure the site is safe."