Major step forward for Hopwood Hall as roof works complete
The project has seen the council and Historic England invest more than half a million pounds into repairing the roof to make the building watertight, with Oldham-based specialist contractor, Maysand, delivering the project.
In addition to the work on the roof, Maysand carried out restoration to the leaded windows, alongside crucial works to downpipes and gutters. The total investment into the building for the most recent roofworks project was £640,000.
Locals also got involved in the project, with Rochdale Development Agency (RDA) leading an archaeological dig on site. In addition, Hopwood Hall college students learned about stone carving and leaded window restoration in special workshops.
Councillor Neil Emmott, leader of the council, said:
“Hopwood Hall is an important part of Middleton and the wider borough’s heritage and this most recent work builds on the £1.7 million which has been invested into Hopwood Hall by ourselves and other public sector organisations in recent years.
“In addition to this work, an independent feasibility study is on going and this will help us determine future uses for Hopwood Hall, as we continue to forge a long-term future for this important building for the benefit of local residents.”
Oldham based Maysand, works across the north of England and specialises in heritage work. Having previously rebuilt the historic façade of Milnrow’s Edwardian library, they are also onsite repairing and restoring the old Packer Spout steps behind Rochdale Town Hall, which are expected to be completed next summer.
Bryn Lisle, managing director of Maysand, said:
“We work all over the north of England, but it’s a particular pleasure to complete projects on our doorstep. Hopwood Hall is a fascinating building and our team has used traditional materials to honour and preserve its rich history. We were also pleased to deliver the training sessions for the young Hopwood Hall students. You could see they really enjoyed themselves and got so much out of it.”
