Calne Police have issued a strong warning after repeated reports of people gaining access to the disused Co-op site in Mill Street over the summer.
Witnesses have reported children and adults climbing over fencing, entering the building, smashing glass, and even being seen on the roof. Officers have attended the site on multiple occasions - sometimes finding no one, but on others discovering people inside or refusing to come down from the roof. Each time, the premises has been re-secured.
PCSO Mark Cook, from the neighbourhood policing team, said the site remains highly unsafe. “This site is extremely dangerous. We are urging parents and guardians to speak with their children about the very real dangers of entering this building - adults who enter this site should know better,” he said.
“Although decommissioning work has removed some harmful materials such as asbestos, serious hazards remain, including exposed lift shafts, broken glass, loose timber, unlit stairwells and electrical wiring. Additional boarding has recently been removed to access the roof, where loose masonry and unprotected edges create an undoubtedly high risk of severe or even fatal injury. Officers are putting themselves at risk every time they enter to ensure no one is inside. Please do not enter this site — it is not a playground.”
The owners of the building confirmed they would be attending today (Friday 5 September) to clear broken glass and reinforce damaged boarding.
Police say they are working closely with the owners, Calne Town Council and Wiltshire Council to monitor the site, speed up planning, and move towards the eventual demolition of the building. CCTV is being used, patrols have been stepped up, and officers say they will investigate any offences identified.
PCSO Cook added: “We would like to reassure residents and the wider community that we are listening, and we are taking the necessary steps to address concerns over any anti-social behaviour in this area. Anyone who sees individuals entering the site is urged to report to us online, or call 999 in an emergency.”
Residents affected by issues linked to the site will also have the chance to speak directly with PCSO Cook in Mill Street on Monday 8 September, between 7pm and 8pm.
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