Devon and Cornwall Police have issued a warning to 'urban explorers' after a group of young people was seen entering fenced-off, abandoned buildings in the Paignton area. The force said it has received daily reports of trespassers accessing unsafe structures, raising fears that someone could be seriously injured or killed.
Neighbourhood Team Leader Sergeant Ed Thomas highlighted the dangers, stating: 'Breaking into abandoned buildings is highly dangerous. Many are unstable with unsafe floors, broken glass and exposed electrical wiring - as well as entrapment hazards.' He also warned of health risks from asbestos and bird droppings.
Recent incidents include two reports in Paignton on Thursday evening (4 June) of youths breaking into derelict buildings opposite Paignton Railway Station and the Oldway Mansion complex. In Brixham, a group broke into a derelict care home site, where one youth fell through a skylight. Police and fire crews responded, but the group fled.
Sgt Thomas added: 'This type of behaviour puts police officers and especially fire officers at considerable risk and wastes emergency service time that could be needed elsewhere.' He urged parents to discuss the dangers with their children, noting that while trespass is a civil matter, burglary and other offences are criminal and will be dealt with accordingly.
Police are aware of social media trends promoting 'urban exploration' (UE, urbex, or roof and tunnel hacking), but the reported behaviour amounts to vandalism. Enquiries have identified individuals from Torbay and as far as Exeter, and follow-up actions with families are planned.
Anyone who suspects trespassing on abandoned property should contact Torbay Council or, in emergencies, call 999. Non-urgent incidents can be reported via 101 or the Devon & Cornwall Police website.
