Lifeline for 'Britain's longest row of iconic red telephone boxes'

A row of iconic red telephone boxes believed to be the longest surviving line in Britain are set to be transformed into an art installation after falling into decay.

The nine, Grade II-listed cast iron kiosks in Preston, Lancashire, have all fallen into disrepair and long since had their telephone handsets removed.

But despite being damaged by vandals, the city's council is now hoping to transform the boxes, with the help of local artists, into a 'must see' attraction. It plans to restore the 'iconic telephone boxes' with contemporary lights and graphic images.

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Councillor Peter Kelly, cabinet member for culture at the council, is 'proud' that Preston is the home of the longest line of telephone boxes.

He added he wants to improve the telephone boxes with 'dynamic and creative installations' from local artists.

He said: "We are proud to celebrate Preston being the home of the UK's longest line of historic red telephone boxes. An outstanding landmark in the heart of our city that we are committed to bringing back to life for this, and future generations to enjoy.

"We plan to work with local artists to commission contemporary light, audio visual or graphic works to bring the telephone boxes alive, create a must see and add to the vibrancy of the Harris Quarter.”

Situated outside the former head post office in Market Street in the city centre, the row of the much-loved telephone boxes were acquired by the council in 2021.

Chair of Preston's Towns Fund Strategic Board, John Chesworth, says