Level 9 - Bus Station Dreams

Today I and other members of the public were treated to a walk/talk by Michael Akers of Friends of Winckley/Preston Historical society, Michael started the walk from Preston Guild Hall, bringing the groups attention to the surrounding buildings, highlighting how the town planners and architects once looked back to find inspiration for our buildings and how in the 60’s this would change. Inspired by the 1920’s Bauhaus movement, Architects Keith Ingham and Charles Wilson of the Building Design Partnership (BDP) would dare to imagine what a building of the future would look like, and arguably created Lancashires most iconic brutalist Building….. Preston Bus Station!

As we walked through the bus station, Michael painted a vivid picture of its history & construction. Built during a time of urban renewal, the bus station was part of a broader vision to modernize Preston. It replaced several smaller, scattered bus depots, centralizing public transport and providing a modern gateway to the city. Despite its functional purpose, the building quickly became a polarizing landmark, loved and loathed in equal measure.

Walking around Preston Bus Station with Michael Akers was more than a historical tour; it was a journey through time. We saw how a building can take on the spirit of a city, reflecting its past, present, and future. how much ambition a building can give its community! For those who missed out I encourage you to visit Preston Bus Station and see for yourself How special this building is!.

A big thank you to Michael, The Preston Historical Society and Friends of Winckley Square keep an eye out for future walks and talks by them There’s always more to discover in our ever-evolving city.

Cheers

Ash