It is reported that the Harris Institute at Avenham has been bought by Yousuf Bhailok, a local businessman, for just under £300,000. Mr Bhailok also bought Harris Park in Fulwood and has been involved in the campaign to keep the football museum in Preston.
The price seems surprisingly low for such a large building although it’s size and that it’s grade II listed make it less adaptable. Mr Bhailok is offering to rent the building to the council or an educational organisation although you might wonder why they wouldn’t have bought it themselves as I recently read that local authorities have better access to grants than private businesses. That is why Blackpool Council is taking over the Tower and Winter Gardens.
That area of Avenham including the promenade across the road and along to Winckley Square is one of special architectural interest to Preston. In the LEP Mr Bhailok says he’s interested in old buildings, isn’t looking to make a profit and it will be a labour of love. I haven’t heard of any complaints about the Harris Park so lets hope this works and preserves the building. I have some personal interest as I knew several people who went to school there many years ago and my father studied there some 80yrs ago, I still have the certificates.
I’ve had a few e-mails from people related to the building being used as an Islamic University, as announced on 26th Jan 2010. However this site is not for religious or racial debate so no comments will be published on this subject.