Urgent action needed to secure Bishop Auckland's vacant properties against potential arson, says local councillor

Empty shops in the town centre could become targets for arson if measures aren't taken to curb vandalism and anti-social behaviour, according to local warnings.

Residents and business owners in Bishop Auckland have reported instances of smashed windows, graffiti and damage to units. The former Beales store on Newgate Street has been a frequent target, prompting calls for more immediate action from local authorities.

Durham Constabulary confirmed that efforts are underway to rectify the damage and that dedicated patrols are being conducted in the area. County councillor Sam Zair fears teenagers could be using hammers to cause damage to abandoned buildings.

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He said: "Over the past few weeks, the Beales property has been targeted on a regular basis with windows and doors being broken. "The youths must be walking around with a hammer."

"The access was left wide open and my fear is that the youths could quite easily set fire to the building. This would endanger themselves and firefighters. The building is so huge. The other empty and derelict buildings in Newgate Street have also been giving the police and other agencies problems."

Cllr Zair said he has met with police officers and other officials to discuss how to tackle the worrying incidents and called for greater accountability of landlords who own the abandoned buildings. The independent councillor added: "The owners should have a duty of care to secure their premises and make them safe. Instead, the landlords are just leaving them to rot making the town centre look dirty and closed for business. This is totally unacceptable."

Parents have been urged to warn children of the dangers of vandalism throughout the town centre. A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: "We understand this is frustrating for the residents and shop owners of Bishop Auckland; we are working with local agencies to improve the facades of the buildings along Newgate Street which includes boarding up premises where damage has been caused and securing access points.

"We are also increasing patrols in the area and carrying out days of action with our partners to identify premises which are subject to repeat criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

"There are a number of abandoned buildings within close proximity which makes it easy for youngsters to gain access. We want to encourage parents to speak to their children and warn them of the dangers of accessing these sites – you are putting yourself in danger and committing a criminal offence.

"Please continue to report anti-social behaviour and find out who is the best agency to deal with the problem here: https://www.durham.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/asb/asb/antisocial-behaviour/