Plans approved to re-develop iconic Grade II listed Harris Institute

The future of one of Preston’s most cherished heritage assets has been secured as plans to redevelop the iconic Grade II listed Harris Institute were approved by Preston City Council’s Planning Committee on 5th December.

The approved scheme will see the Harris Institute, a building currently on Historic England’s At Risk Register, fully refurbished and brought back to life.

The plans include converting the building into a vibrant hub featuring coworking and exhibition space, an art shop and gallery, as well as conference and café facilities. The adjoining Regent House will be transformed into nine holiday lets, alongside the creation of a new courtyard and improved access to the site.

Originally opened in 1849 as the Preston Institution for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, the building was later supported by benefactor Edmund Robert Harris, who envisioned its use for educational purposes. After nearly a decade of being empty, the Harris Institute’s restoration will ensure it continues to serve the community in a meaningful way.

A spokesperson for The Harris Investment Group said: "We are incredibly proud and excited to see our plans for the Harris Institute approved by Preston City Council.

"Our vision is to create a vibrant, multi-use space that serves the community, attracts visitors, and honours the legacy of this iconic landmark. We are committed to working with local stakeholders, Historic England, and future occupiers to ensure this development becomes a source of pride for Preston."

John Bridge, architect for the scheme said: "As an architect, I am incredibly passionate about restoring The Harris Institute to its former glory and ensuring it becomes a thriving hub for Preston once again”.

“Now our application has been approved, we will be able to revive this Grade II* listed heritage asset, creating a state-of-the-art conference venue to bolster the city’s business community, a professional exhibition space for local artists, and a unique holiday let in Regent House with its beautifully restored courtyard.”

“This is a crucial step in safeguarding the Harris Institute’s legacy, taking it off Historic England’s ‘Buildings At Risk’ register, and delivering much-needed spaces for gallery exhibitions, co-working, and cultural engagement. Preston deserves this, and we are delighted to secure the backing of the Planning Committee to make it a reality.”

The Harris Investment Group are actively seeking future occupiers who share their commitment to celebrating the building’s heritage and embracing its new purpose. Interested parties are encouraged to contact John Bridge at [email protected].

Funding opportunities are being explored to support the restoration process. The development team includes Studio John Bridge Architects, Gately Smithers Purlow Heritage Specialists, Eden Planning for planning consultancy, and The QS Company for cost analysis.

The building was originally opened in 1849 and was later funded by benefactor Edmund Robert Harris who stipulated that it should be used for educational purposes.

Its original title was the Preston Institution for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge. In recent years it became the Harris School of Art and then the Darul Aloom Islamic Institution.