A year ago today, on 28 September 2025, the Harris reopened its doors after a four-year, £19 million restoration. Twelve months on, it is one of several projects changing how Preston city centre looks, works and feels. Here is where things stand this autumn.
1. The streets are being rebuilt
On 6 July 2026, work began on improvements to Friargate South, Cheapside/Market Place and Orchard Street. The works bring new paving in pedestrian areas, road resurfacing, tree planting, new street furniture and better cycle routes, with the aim of making the city centre brighter, safer and more attractive to visit.
- Funded through the £20 million Local Regeneration Fund (formerly Levelling Up funding) that Preston City Council secured from central government in 2023.
- Delivered in phases over roughly 12 months, starting with Cheapside and one side of Orchard Street.
2. A shopping centre becomes up to 500 homes
Preston's planning committee voted unanimously to grant outline approval for the redevelopment of the ageing St John's Shopping Centre and neighbouring 77–97 Tithebarn Street into three apartment blocks of 11 to 16 storeys.
- Up to 500 homes, in a mix of one-, two- and three-bed apartments.
- Around 75,000 sq ft of commercial and community space.
- A gross development value of around £98 million.
Detailed designs and phasing will follow. It is a clear sign of where the city centre is heading: fewer empty shops, more people living in the middle of the city.
3. Culture and community
- The Harris, Preston's Grade I-listed museum, art gallery and library, has been fully restored, with new galleries, learning spaces, a café and a library blended throughout.
- Vault, an £11 million youth zone on Tithebarn Street opposite Preston Bus Station, has been built for young people aged 8 to 19, or up to 25.
What it means for investors
- A better place to live: safer streets, green space and restored landmarks help attract and keep tenants in the city centre.
- Public money on the ground: these projects are funded and under way, not just plans on paper.
- A growing residential core: hundreds of new city-centre homes point to confidence in Preston as a place to live, not just to shop.
For the wider picture, see our Preston city guide.
London House, in the heart of it
London House sits within Preston's Stoneygate regeneration area, close to the streets now being transformed. Legacy is its Master Agent. It offers 70 apartments, with 1-bed from £139,750 and 2-bed from £173,000, and completion is estimated for Q2 2027.
All prices are indicative only and subject to change. Please speak to a Legacy Investment specialist to confirm prices and availability.
Book a consultation or message us on WhatsApp to talk it through with our team.
Sources
- Preston City Council: Friargate South improvement works start
- Place North West: Go-ahead for £98m redevelopment of Preston's St John's
- Museums Association: Preston's Harris Museum reopens after £19m transformation
- Preston City Council: Membership opens for Preston's new Vault Youth Zone
- Blog Preston: Vault youth zone to open in phases in 2026