POLICE have issued a warning to free-runners climbing and jumping around derelict sites in Southampton. 

They say those using sites like the Bargate Shopping Centre for "urban exploration" are putting both themselves and members of the public at risk.

The warning comes after Hampshire Constabulary arrested three boys on suspicion of causing criminal damage inside the empty centre, which is now earmarked for demolition.

The 11 and 12-year-olds were arrested after members of the public reported seeing the trio enter the centre, climb across the rooftops and smash windows.

Following the reports, at about 6.30pm on April 26, the three boys were arrested and this week they were referred to the Youth Offending Service to make up for the damage they caused.

PC Anthony Brooks from Southampton Central Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We are aware of many groups trespassing on the roof top areas of the city centre in recent months.

"We would like to remind those who engage in this behaviour that causing damage to property will not be tolerated. Even if a building appears derelict or disused, it will still have an owner."

Police have also warned free-runners about the dangers of using buildings such as the Bargate Shopping Centre.

Earlier this year Ally Love recorded a video of him running and climbing around the empty centre after getting in through a hole in its roof.
He was previously condemned by civic chiefs for scaling Dumbleton Towers without any safety gear.

PC Brooks continued: “We would also like to highlight the risk of free-running or urban-exploring, recently made popular in the city.

"These types of buildings, like the Bargate Centre, are full of hazards and anyone trespassing is putting themselves at risk of injury.

"Passing members of the public are also at risk of falling debris.

“Parents are encouraged to remind their children of the dangers of this activity in relation to falling from heights and entering disused buildings and to respect the property rights of others.

“Do not access private premises unless you have permission from the land owner.

"Such behaviour could eventually lead to a criminal record which affects employment and travel opportunities in the future.”

As revealed in the Daily Echo last week, the Bargate Shopping Centre is set to be knocked down and replaced by up to 80,000sq ft of shops, 400 student flats and 140 private apartments.

A planning application for the proposals, which would also allow residents to walk alongside the medieval city walls again, is set to be filed with the city council this year.