Preston-based Conlon Construction has completed the latest stage of a multi-phase restoration project at Heaton Hall, the Grade I-listed 18th century jewel in the crown of Manchester City Council’s 600-acre Heaton Park.
Designed by James Wyatt in 1772, Heaton Hall is a sandstone and stuccoed brick house constructed in the Palladian style, which has been referred to as the ‘finest house of its period in Lancashire’.
Grade I-listed since 1952, the building was devastated by a fire in the West Wing in 1982 and subject to urgent repairs in 2012 to ensure long-term protection against the elements, including substantial roofing works.
The programme of works delivered by Conlon Construction support Manchester City Council’s conservation goals at Heaton Hall and the latest round of restoration works included refurbishment and reinstatement of the West Wing’s original windows and shutters, which have been in storage since the fire.. In addition, stonework, glazing and joinery works have also been undertaken across the building, aligned to the hall’s Grade I-listed status.
The work has been closely monitored and informed by Historic England; a long-term partner in the restoration of Heaton Hall and major financial contributor to the project, with £400,000 in funding provided over the past two years.
Works to the hall have been complemented by an improvement programme across Heaton Park, thanks to a £600,000 investment from the Clean City Fund. This includes a full refurbishment of the play areas.
Michael Conlon, chairman at Conlon Construction, said: “Heaton Hall is a treasure of Manchester’s heritage and has been on Historic England’s ‘At Risk Register’ for several years, due to deterioration and the West Wing fire. We’re delighted to be involved in this scheme to restore the Grade I-listed building. The project builds on our extensive conservation experience, which includes a recent restoration project at the Grade I-listed National Trust property, Gawthorpe Hall. The finished project will not only help to extend the lifespan of this remarkable building but also ensures that it is now in a condition that will allow visitors to Heaton Park to fully enjoy it inside and out and enable Manchester City Council to maximise its potential as an asset.”
Following a recent visit by representatives from Historic England, it is hoped that the city council will be able to secure additional funding to continue restoration works at the hall, which will be the centrepiece of a centenary concert in July commemorating the Battle of the Somme.
