Winstanley Hall faces uncertain future — local heritage needs support

Supporters of the Winstanley Hall plan hope to secure backing before it is too late.

A Tudor hall under threat

Winstanley Hall stands as one of Greater Manchester’s few surviving Tudor-era houses. 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.

Years of neglect have left serious damage to the building. 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 restoration plan combining heritage and housing

The proposals featured on the Winstanley Hall site call for a full restoration of 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 public backing there may be too little incentive or funding to prevent further decay.

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.