‘Keep out’ warning as 'urban explorers' break into Oldway Mansion

Police in Paignton have put out a warning to ‘urban explorers’ to keep clear of historic Oldway Mansion.

They say the behaviour of the intruders is nothing more than vandalism and is highly dangerous.

The building is currently shrouded in scaffolding and sealed off with fences as Torbay Council begins a multi-million-pound programme to repair and renovate it.

But groups of explorers have been evading security to get inside the Victorian building that was once the home of the powerful Singer family.

Videos of their exploits have been posted on social media channels, joining a recent wave of similar videos shot in abandoned buildings around Devon. Empty hotels and tourist attractions have also featured in the video clips.

The Oldway intrusions have prompted some local councillors to call for security around the site to be increased.

A recent video posted on TikTok showed a group of at least four ‘explorers’ inside Oldway, filming the marble staircase, statues, the ballroom and a number of rooms on the upper floors. The intruders film themselves on balconies overlooking Oldway’s grounds, and their film comes to an abrupt end when they are met by a security guard.

The clips show how internal protection work has already begun inside the mansion, including covering the unique marble stairs and floors to prevent any damage.

The video does not show any damage being done to the fabric of the building, but some councillors are urging increased security to make sure Oldway is protected.

One said: “I am extremely concerned. It is important that security is enhanced around Oldway.”

Police in Torbay posted a warning on social media at the weekend in response to ‘explorers’ targeting abandoned buildings throughout Torbay.

They said: “They are putting themselves and others at risk.

“This appears to be following the trend of urban exploration which began from people exploring abandoned ruins for photographs or historical interest.  However, the behaviour being reported to police and partner agencies amounts to nothing more than vandalism.”

The statement said breaking into abandoned buildings could be highly dangerous

It went on: “Many are unstable with unsafe floors, broken glass and exposed electrical wiring as well as entrapment hazards. There is the risk of exposure to asbestos as well as pigeon and other faeces. The health risks from exposure will not be seen now but many years in the future.

“There are ongoing reports of injuries and fatalities worldwide from this dangerous pastime.  Also, the cost of constant repair and securing of these buildings, as well as insurance, can be prohibitive to owners of these sites.”

Police are asking parents to discuss the dangers with their children.

And, they added: “Although trespass is deemed a civil matter, burglary and other offences are criminal and will be dealt with accordingly.”

Oldway has been empty for 12 years since Torbay Council stopped using it as offices, but there are hopes that it can be returned to full public use, with a register office, public spaces and a restaurant with accommodation on the upper floors.

Installing scaffolding is expected to take around five months, after which the council’s appointed contractors will start repair work on the roof, floors, windows and doors.