Wyre Council has today applied to the Magistrates' Court for an order under Section 77 of the Building Act 1984 to ensure the safe repair of the former catalogue shop on Lord Street, Fleetwood.
The building was severely damaged by fire in June 2026 and has changed ownership twice since the incident. Following the most recent transfer, the Council contacted the new owners on 29 July, giving 14 days' notice to undertake essential safety measures, including the erection of structural scaffolding to facilitate repair works and protect the public. Only once the scaffolding has been erected and the necessary repairs completed can the Council be satisfied that the risks to public safety have been addressed and Lord Street can be fully reopened.
While the current owners have taken steps towards completing the required works, the scaffolding installed to date has not been completed to a standard that provides sufficient assurance of safety for residents, visitors and neighbouring businesses.
As a result, the Council has today submitted an application to the Magistrates' Court for a Section 77 Order, the earliest opportunity to do so. If granted, the Order will require the building owners to remove the danger posed by the structure within 14 days. Should they fail to comply, the Council will have the power to carry out the necessary works and recover the reasonable costs incurred.
Councillor Peter Le Marinel, Portfolio Holder for Planning Policy and Economic Development, said:
"We share the frustration of residents and businesses that this situation remains unresolved. Since the fire, ownership of the building has changed hands twice, and we have had to allow each new owner reasonable time to make the property safe.
"We recognise that local businesses, particularly those near the affected site and tram stop, have faced a difficult and uncertain period. Many have worked hard to continue trading despite reduced footfall and ongoing disruption, and we are focused on delivering a resolution.
"We will continue to use all powers available to us to ensure the necessary repairs are carried out and to bring this matter to a safe and satisfactory conclusion as quickly as possible."
We are acutely aware of the significant impact the ongoing road closure is having on local businesses and appreciate the frustration and disruption it continues to cause. A replacement bus service, funded by Wyre Council and delivered by Blackpool Transport, has been operating while the tram line remains closed. From 1 September, Archway Travel will take over operation of the shuttle, which will make stops at both Lord Street and Fleetwood Market, and will continue until further notice to help minimise disruption to passengers, businesses and the wider community.
Public safety remains our top priority as we work towards a safe resolution, and we will continue to provide further updates as progress is made. Visit our news pages for the latest information: www.wyre.gov.uk/news
If you are a business owner in Fleetwood, support is available. Contact the Boost Business Support Helpdesk for free, impartial help and advice on the range of support available to businesses. Although hardship funding is not available, businesses may be eligible for grants and assistance aimed at supporting business sustainability, investment, innovation and growth. https://www.boostbusinesslancashire.co.uk/services/business-support-helpdesk