Empty town centre shops could be subject to arson if actions are not taken to crack down on vandalism and anti-social behaviour, it has been warned. 

Smashed windows, graffiti and damage to units have been reported by residents and business owners in Bishop Auckland.

The former Beales store on Newgate Street has been repeatedly targeted and has sparked calls for swifter action from local authorities. 

Durham Constabulary said work is ongoing to clear up the damage and dedicated patrols were taking place in the area. 

Durham Constabulary said work is ongoing to clear up the damage Durham Constabulary said work is ongoing to clear up the damage (Image: The Northern Echo)

County councillor Sam Zair fears teenagers could be using hammers to cause damage to abandoned buildings.

He said: “Over the past few weeks, the Beales property has been targeted on a regular basis with windows and doors being broken. “The youths must be walking around with a hammer.”

“The access was left wide open and my fear is that the youths could quite easily set fire to the building. This would endanger themselves and firefighters. The building is so huge. The other empty and derelict buildings in Newgate Street have also been giving the police and other agencies problems.”

Cllr Zair said he has met with police officers and other officials to discuss how to tackle the worrying incidents and called for greater accountability of landlords who own the abandoned buildings. 

The independent councillor added: “The owners should have a duty of care to secure their premises and make them safe. Instead, the landlords are just leaving them to rot making the town centre look dirty and closed for business. 

“This is totally unacceptable.”

Smashed windows, graffiti and damage to units have been reportedSmashed windows, graffiti and damage to units have been reported (Image: The Northern Echo)

Parents have been urged to warn children of the dangers of vandalism throughout the town centre. 

A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: “We understand this is frustrating for the residents and shop owners of Bishop Auckland; we are working with local agencies to improve the facades of the buildings along Newgate Street which includes boarding up premises where damage has been caused and securing access points.

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“We are also increasing patrols in the area and carrying out days of action with our partners to identify premises which are subject to repeat criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

“There are a number of abandoned buildings within close proximity which makes it easy for youngsters to gain access. We want to encourage parents to speak to their children and warn them of the dangers of accessing these sites – you are putting yourself in danger and committing a criminal offence.

“Please continue to report anti-social behaviour and find out who is the best agency to deal with the problem here: Antisocial behaviour | Durham Constabulary.”