Fires started by young people in derelict buildings in Newton Abbot.

A series of fires have taken place at a number of derelict buildings in Bradley Lane Newton Abbot, trapping several young people who required rescue by firefighters.

Teignbridge Council owns the buildings, which are scheduled for demolition, and plans for the site are still under discussion. Currently, the buildings are boarded up to prevent entry.

Despite these precautions, council officials report that over the past few months, groups of young people have managed to enter the buildings through vulnerable points.

In response to these incidents, the council and emergency services have devised a series of measures to protect young people from the dangers posed by these hazardous buildings, such as falling through damaged flooring or becoming trapped during a fire.

Teignbridge Council has now hired a contractor to secure the site's perimeter with 3-meter palisade fencing, and there are increased police patrols in the area. Additional security patrols will also be conducted in the evenings and on weekends to deter intruders.

Councillor David Palethorpe, executive member for economic development, expressed concern: "We’re really worried about reports of young people entering the building and putting themselves and others at risk, so we’re taking extra measures to secure the site.

"We’ve approved the installation of perimeter fencing to safeguard the buildings, which are in a highly dangerous state and should not be entered. We’re also collaborating with police and community partners to increase patrols around the area.

"I urge parents to discuss the dangers of entering disused buildings with their children and to ensure they know where their children are during the school holidays."

Scott Leaman, Newton Abbot Fire Station Commander, warned: "Young people might think they can enter derelict buildings through gaps in roofs and windows and exit the same way, but if a fire starts, escaping becomes much harder.

"The risk of becoming disoriented and trapped is very real and could lead to tragic consequences. We encourage parents to talk to their children about the dangers of entering disused buildings."

Inspector James Johnson, who leads the neighbourhood police teams in Newton Abbot, stated: "We are collaborating with our partners to educate young people and keep them safe. Our officers will regularly patrol these areas to deter visits to unused buildings. Anyone found in the buildings will be safely removed, and action will be taken if necessary."

He also urged the public to report any sightings of people on the site via the police website or by calling 999 if someone is seen in a disused building.

"By working together, we can ensure the safety of our community," he said.