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. Its origins date to the late 1500s when it functioned as a manorhouse. In past centuries the estate contributed to local coal mining and weaving industries.

Time and neglect have taken a severe toll on the hall. Roofs now leak, floors have collapsed and parts suffer structural failure. If no intervention occurs soon, important heritage may be lost forever.

A restoration plan combining heritage and housing

The scheme described on the Winstanley Hall website aims to fully restore the hall. The restored building would become 36 apartments. Beyond the hall, the estate would see delivery of almost 400 new homes.

The proposals include public open spaces, green corridors, footpaths, a heritage centre, a community orchard and woodland buffers. The design seeks to protect views, safeguard local ecology and preserve privacy for current neighbours.

If approved, the scheme would give the public access to large parts of the estate for the first time.

The urgency for public backing

Supporters say this plan offers the only realistic chance to save Winstanley Hall. Without community support there may not be enough drive or funds to stop further decline.

This proposal tackles two needs at once — preserving a historic building and providing new housing. It can safeguard a historical landmark while delivering homes that many local families 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.

By supporting the project today, readers help shape a future where Winstanley Hall remains part of the region’s heritage — and becomes a living community resource for tomorrow.