PEOPLE have been warned to stay out of the derelict Locarno in Old Town after the hoardings surrounding the structure fell down.

Fears have been raised over the security and safety of the site while it remains exposed.

Although plans are under way to develop the building into a hotel and restaurants, the building has stood empty for many years.

Last week, hoardings around the site fell down and, while the site owners have said they will replace them as soon as possible, Wiltshire Police has warned people against trying to enter.

“Many youths may be tempted to enter derelict buildings such as the Locarno in Old Town,” a spokesman said.

“Whether it is adults or children who wrongly think buildings like this can serve as playgrounds or interesting places to explore or cause criminal damage, I would like to take this opportunity to remind them of the dangers they are putting themselves in.

“We have asked the site owners to install better-quality fencing.

“We would also encourage anybody who sees any suspicious behaviour in and around the building to call police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.”

The Mechanics’ Institution Trust has been contributing to the development plans for the Locarno and chairman Daniel Rose said while the group welcomes work being done, there are worries over potential damage.

“We were pleased to see the most recent proposals for the site and wider area and felt these had promise in contrast to previous plans,” he said.

“Progress has been quiet in recent months but we believe that further work has been happening to have a development agreement in place and that marketing was due to start on potential operators.

“In the interim however, we are concerned that the current hoardings are now not fit for purpose.

“This gives the opportunity for further anti-social behaviour to take place as well as safety concerns on the site.”

Swindon Borough Council says it has been liaising with the owners to make sure the hoardings are repaired.

A spokesman said: “Although we do not own the Corn Exchange building or have responsibility for its security, the council very much supports both the preservation and future redevelopment of this historic site.

“A resident brought to our attention an issue with the fencing and we have alerted Forward Swindon, which is working with the owner on plans to regenerate this site.

“A contractor will be fixing it as a matter of urgency.”