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. 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 proposals featured on the Winstanley Hall site call for a full restoration of the hall. Under the plan the hall would be converted into 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. This layout aims to preserve sightlines, respect local ecology and protect privacy for existing residents.

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

Why support matters now

Champions of the plan argue it represents the only feasible path 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.

How to make a difference

Readers who care about heritage and housing are invited to visit the Winstanley Hall site and register support. Strong public endorsement could help convince local planners and authorities to approve the scheme.

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.