Preston Bus Station winning design revealed

New York architect selected for revamp.

The winner of an architectural competition to revamp Preston Bus Station has been revealed.

John Puttick Associates was selected from a shortlist of five anonymous entries to enhance the site in a multi-million pound investment.

The New York based company will be responsible for the designs of a vibrant new facility, which is to house the new Preston Youth Zone Plus whilst still remaining a major transport hub for the city.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) received over 100 entries but judges eventually sided with the public, who voted in their thousands at a two day exhibition to select a favourite design. Architectural concerns also influenced the judges’ decision.

John Puttick Associates submitted a contemporary design in keeping with the iconic existing building, opened in 1969 and currently listed Grade II.

The addition of the £6M youth facilities will require approval from Historic England before construction works can begin. The planning application is to be submitted later this year once architects, the county council and Preston Youth Zone have agreed upon a final design.

Preston Youth Zone is an independent charity delivered with the help of public, private and voluntary sector support and led by OnSide Youth Zones. It is to contribute £1M towards construction costs with Lancashire County Council investing £5M.

Inspired by the success of Bolton Lads and Girls Club, the space will offer a range of sporting facilities and artistic areas for young people.

Jennifer Mein, Leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “We always knew that the bus station had a global appeal, and the fact that the winning firm comes from New York reinforces this.

“We’re delighted that a strong design has been chosen for the new Youth Zone Plus and we’ll now be working hard to get it built.

“This is a significant investment in one of Preston’s most well-known buildings, which will bring exciting new facilities for our young people, for this generation and for future ones.

“It’s an exciting time for the city, with improvements taking place on Fishergate and the first steps in the redevelopment of Preston Market. These plans are all part of the Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal, which is creating new job opportunities, providing new housing and making it easier for people to get around.”

John Puttick, Architect behind the chosen design, said: “The Preston Bus Station development is an important opportunity to create a destination that makes a genuine difference for both visitors and the local community.

“The three components of the project – the revitalisation of the modernist bus station, the new OnSide Youth Zone, and a large outdoor public space – offer a rich mixture of uses and the challenge of sensitively introducing contemporary design to the existing setting.

“We are delighted to have been selected as the winners of the competition and are excited to develop the design with the client and stakeholders. We hope to play a game of football on the roof once the project is complete.”

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