Winstanley Hall: historic landmark at risk, public support needed

Advocates urge public backing now to protect Winstanley Hall from decay.

A once-grand hall in danger

This historic hall ranks among the rare Tudor-era houses left in Greater Manchester. Originally built in the late 16th century, it first served as a manorhouse. Over the years the estate played a part in regional coal mining and weaving.

Time and neglect have taken a severe toll on the hall. The roof leaks, some floors have fallen in and key structural elements have deteriorated. If no intervention occurs soon, important heritage may be lost forever.

A plan to save history and provide new homes

The scheme described on the Winstanley Hall website aims to fully restore the hall. Under the plan the hall would be converted into 36 apartments. The wider estate would deliver nearly 400 new homes.

The plan includes public open spaces, woodland corridors, walking paths, a heritage centre, a community orchard, and woodland buffers. This layout aims to preserve sightlines, respect local ecology and protect privacy for existing residents.

Approval would allow public access to much of the estate for the first time in its history.

The urgency for public backing

Supporters say this plan offers the only realistic chance to save Winstanley Hall. Without public backing there may be too little incentive or funding to prevent further decay.

The scheme addresses both heritage preservation and housing needs. It offers a way to protect the hall’s heritage while supplying homes for local families in need.

What readers can do

Anyone concerned about heritage or community housing can visit the Winstanley Hall site and add their support. Public backing may sway planners and local authorities to approve restoration and development.

Your support today can help ensure Winstanley Hall remains a heritage landmark and becomes a living part of the community’s future.