Preston Bus Station: Geographies of architecture and age

Abstract

Since September 2013, Preston Bus Station has held Grade II listed status due to a backlash of international campaigns to save the structure from proposed demolition. This is just one of the multitude of decision that has faced the large Brutalist structure since its construction in 1969, which has continued to divide opinion and create controversy. Based on focus group participation, this research draws out the experiences and opinions of Preston Bus Station from residents of Preston and users of the bus station over the age of 65. The research, through exploring theories relating to geographies of architecture, geographies of age and considering post war modernist architecture, articulates a lived experience of Preston Bus Station from the point of view of it everyday users. The study highlights that due to years of undecided fate the bus station has been neglected and is subsequently in need of a refurbishment to make it more user friendly. Additionally pedestrian access routes create a sense of fear amongst local residents which arguably prevented the bus station from being used to its full potential. However, Preston Bus Station is a valued facility to residents of Preston over the age of 65 in which places a positive light on the controversial Brutalist structure.