Winstanley Hall, Wigan
Heritage
Works has recently completed work on an options appraisal study, looking
at future uses for this derelict grade 2* building. A steering group
with representatives from the three funders - English Heritage, Wigan
Council and Dorbcrest Homes - provided guidance and monitor progress
of the study.
See further images of Winstanley Hall.
The Study
The options appraisal study aime:
- review work already undertaken by Dorbcrest's design team;
- consider other end use options;
- identify grant funding and cross subsidising development opportunities;
- explore delivery mechanisms.
Description
Winstanley Hall is a late 16th century Grade II* listed building, scheduled ancient monument, and is one of only three Tudor buildings in the Wigan area. The Hall has three storeys, and is stone-built with mullioned windows. It is located at the heart of the 400-acre Winstanley Park. The Hall has been deteriorating for some time and is now in very poor condition. There is extensive dry rot and roof leaks, some internal floors have collapsed, interior finishes have been lost, and the south elevation has been propped up. There are a number of associated 'model farm' outbuildings around a courtyard.
History
The hall was built in the 1560s for the Winstanley family of Wigan, who were lords of the manor since at least 1252, and probably built the moat on the site. In 1596, the Winstanleys sold the estate to James Bankes, a London goldsmith and banker. In 1818-19 Lewis Wyatt made extensive alterations in a Jacobean style. Extra blocks were added in the 17th and 18th centuries - an extra wing was added in 1843. To the south of the Hall, there is a small stone building which was used to house bears that provided entertainment for the Hall's guests.
The Hall was inhabited and had remained in good condition until the 1960s. The building deteriorated and with increasing costs of maintenance and repair the Bankes family decided to sell. In 2000, the Hall was sold to Dorbcrest Homes, who planned a residential conversion, comprising 38 luxury apartments, and over 20 homes. However, they withdrew their planning application when it seemed that the planning authority would