Reviving History: Planned Repairs at Woodbank Hall to Restore Harrison’s Architectural Gem

Woodbank Hall, a historic asset of Stockport Council, has been a topic of concern for some time now. With its grandeur slowly fading into dereliction, the council has finally stepped up, pledging a significant investment for its restoration.

The council’s plan to inject £250,000 into essential repairs has sparked a flicker of hope for the future of this beloved hall. From asbestos removal to the demolition of redundant outbuildings, the restoration project is already underway. However, the journey to bring Woodbank Hall back to its former glory is not without its challenges.

In this article, we’ll delve into the planned repairs at Woodbank Hall, shedding light on the council’s strategies and the potential hurdles they might encounter. Stay tuned as we explore the unfolding saga of this historic structure’s revival.

Woodbank Hall in Woodbank Memorial Park, Stockport

Current Ownership

In the early 1900s, Woodbank Memorial Park, the Hall, and adjacent grounds, became part of the borough of Stockport for the community’s use. It happened through official land deeds with its corporation, now known as the council.

Building’s State of Repair

Unfortunately, the listed building faces extensive decay. Rainwater leaks, resulting from stolen roof coverings and gutter linings, together with blockage in rainwater pipes have saturated the masonry walls. This moisture during a prolonged period led to extensive fungal attacks. The consequences are damaging; both Brown Rot and Dry Rot have ruined the wood frames, joists, beams, and floorboards.

Sadly, attempts by the Council’s contractors at rectifying the fungal attacks only worsened the situation. Instead of making sure the roof coverings and rainwater goods were working, they destructively demolished valuable historic surfaces and used chemical fungicides on the brick structure.

Exterior damages include a sandstone portico covered in white salts, indicating a leaky or missing porch roof. Moreover, the masonry at the rear northeast corner is green with algae, mould, and moss, showing an overflowing blocked iron rainwater pipe. Notably, despite the Council’s security efforts, thieves have stolen all the exterior stone paving at the rear.

Background History

Last in use by the Council for museum collections storage in 2009, the Hall has remained unused since then. Previous councils haven’t found alterative uses for the property. The Council also failed to ensure its care and upkeep, despite the necessity for continued maintenance.

Given the poor condition of Woodbank Hall, no interested third-party buyers have come forward despite the allowance for sale by the Charity Commission, as long as the proceeds were used for improving Woodbank Park. Also, it doesn’t help that various potential uses for the Hall, such as a museum, cafeteria, or a wedding hire venue, aren’t economically viable for its continuous operation and upkeep.

As of 2021, with VAT, an early 2016 estimation by local conservation architects put the cost for structural repairs, reinstating missing features, and general fit-out at around £2.66 million. Unfortunately, this figure does not yet account for the ongoing deterioration of the Hall and the corresponding increase in repair costs.

Present Circumstances

Recently, Stockport Homes has shown interest in converting Woodbank Hall for residential use. With this in mind, they’ve hired Donald Insall Associates, a leading conservation architecture firm, to conduct feasibility studies.

It’s anticipated that wide public consultation will occur when draft plans are ready. Until then, Stockport Heritage Trust voices concerns about the Hall’s immediate short-term welfare but remains appreciative of the developments in place for reviving the Hall.

While the Trust acknowledges potential implications for park access, it remains neutral until overall plans are presented. As a step towards safeguarding Woodbank Hall, the Trust urges immediate Council action. These should include organizing emergency repairs to leaks and commissioning a Significance Assessment of Woodbank Park—potentially opening avenues for additional funding.

A Historical Overview of Land Ownership and Use

Woodbank Hall, horror-stricken by the ravages of time coupled with neglect, tells a silent tale of shifting ownership and land usage. This landmark property, replete with a noteworthy past, stands as a stark reminder of time’s relentless tides.

A profound shift in land usage is evident from the hall’s transition from the seat of a prominent family to a dilapidated, unused structure. The notable Vernon family marked their splendid legacy, prominently indicating their status through the expansive Woodbank estate. The hall, once an emblem of power and wealth, now bears the markers of decay and desertion.

The change in land ownership, transitioning from a personal estate to the council’s hands, has added another complex layer to the narrative of Woodbank Hall. Despite the Council’s well-meaning, albeit ineffective attempts to rectify the situation, the hall continued its regrettable descent into disrepair.

The land usage of the property equally evolved over time. From serving as a private residence and witnessing grandiose balls and regal banquets, it metamorphosed into a public leisure facility offering a unique blend of history and recreation.

Yet, amidst the disheartening spectacle of decay, emerges a glimmer of hope. In recent times, Stockport Homes exhibited an interest in converting the building into residential housing, marking a potential shift from public use back to private dwelling.

Tracking the course of Woodbank Hall and its surrounding estate, one witnesses a microcosm of broader changes in land ownership and use. From private manor to council property, from a family home to a potential residential conversion prospect, the stirring saga of Woodbank Hall continues to unfold.

While the path forward remains tangled with challenges, the hallmark of history upon Woodbank hall remains indelible, awaiting a resurgence to its former glory, if not in usage, in spirit and preservation.

Historic England’s Account of Woodbank Hall

Historic England paints a bleak picture of Woodbank Hall’s current state. Years of neglect have left this listed building heavily decayed. Persistent rainwater leaks triggered by theft of roof coverings and gutter linings, coupled with a plethora of blocked rainwater pipes, saturated the masonry walls. Defaults in roof maintenance escalated with time, paving the way for vast fungal attacks on the wood frames, joists, beams, floor boards and lathes lying beneath the plastered interior wall surfaces. The culprits of these extensive damages? Both Brown Rot and Dry Rot.

In an ill-trained attempt to halt the fungal attacks, the council’s contractors rushed into action, leading to unforeseen consequences. Historic surfaces, irreplaceable, bearing immense historical value, disappeared under the relentless onslaught of demolition. The use of chemical fungicides, injected into the bare bricks, gave no respite, for the protective roof coverings and rainwater goods were still non-functional.

This architectural treasure, crafted by Thomas Harrison, a masterful English architect and bridge engineer born in 1744, now features prominent signs of continuous neglect. Harrison’s works, like the Skerton Bridge in Lancaster, the buildings within Lancaster and Chester castles’ grounds, and the Grosvenor Bridge in Chester, have endured the test of time.

However, Woodbank Hall’s state contrasts starkly with other examples of Harrison’s masterpieces. Today’s image of his work here is a far cry from his legacy of brilliance and sturdiness. Yet, amidst the gloom, there is a glimmer of hope. Stockport Heritage Trust is yet to present the blueprints of its proposed renovation, and liaison with Homes England, Historic England and other relevant bodies is still ongoing. Excitement tingles in the air; the dilapidated Woodbank Hall might yet return to its former glory, courtesy of a future residential conversion.

The Architect Thomas Harrison

Standing as a testament to Greek Revival architecture, Woodbank Hall shines a spotlight on the architectural prowess of Thomas Harrison. Acclaimed as a prominent architect of the early 19th century, Harrison’s work on Woodbank Hall stands as a parable of elegance, precision, and style.

Born in 1744, Harrison’s interest in architecture soon unfurled into a prominent vocation. A journey that began with local projects in Lancaster, England, led to him working on noteworthy structures reflecting the Greek Revival style. One of his striking contributions is the Woodbank Villa, an embodiment of a facade that resonates with the purest forms of Greek architecture.

Constructed between 1812 and 1814, Woodbank Hall emerges as a key emblem of Harrison’s career. Commissioned by Peter Marsland, a prominent industrialist, the villa demonstrates how Harrison’s unique touch transformed structural bricks and mortar into an art form. Intricacies in the design reflect his deep understanding of architecture and Greek Revival style, with the villa itself evoking the essence of ancient Greece.

However, in contrast to Harrison’s pristine reputation, Woodbank Hall currently portrays a disheartening scenario. Years of neglect, roof leaks, and fungal attacks have contributed to the alarming deterioration of this historical site. The expressive architecture, once an epitome of great design, now witnesses severe decay and devastating damages, needing a significant repair budget.

While the villa stands as a Grade II listed building, the task to restore its former glory is cumbersome. Spiralling restoration costs coupled with relentless damage pose stark challenges for those willing to undertake the task. Yet, despite these hurdles, Stockport Council and associated organisations persist, committed to preserving this architectural gem as a tribute to Thomas Harrison’s genius.

The current state of Woodbank Hall is testament to the ephemerality of human endeavour, even in face of architectural splendour. However, through planned repair projects and the collective collaboration of dedicated bodies, there’s hope that the architectural grace of Woodbank, beneath the hand of brilliance that was Thomas Harrison, can be revived.

Transcriptions of Legal Documents for Woodbank

Despite significant infrastructure challenges, the Conservation Officer of Stockport Council took decisive action in 2015. Sourcing a 100 percent funding remit from English Heritage, the officer enlisted the local conservation specialists, Lloyd Evans Pritchard. Their goal? To perform a rigorous condition assessment of the hall and propose potential new, sustainable uses for the property.

The architects undertook this significant task and presented their report in early 2016. They provided detailed insights on the extensive structural damage at the site and the risks of water leakage. Their appraisal did not shy away from confronting the severity of the hall’s state of decay. This assessment played a pivotal role in understanding the necessary actions needed to prevent further deterioration.

Adding another layer of complexity, however, were the considerations necessary to maintain the integrity of the hall’s historical significance. Significant weight was given to detailed conservation methods to preserve the hall’s architectural charms. It was not merely about curtailing decay, but treading lightly to ensure the hall’s past was not obscured in the process.

Earlier attempts to mitigate structural damage, such as the fungicides used to treat wall surfaces, had caused more harm than good. The documentation from Historic England, cites these drastic measures as leading to the needless loss of valuable, historical surfaces within Woodbank Hall.

These insightful documents serve as blueprints. They highlight not only the required physical efforts but also the delicate balance of preserving the building’s narrative. The need to progress without losing the essence of the past becomes clear. With these invaluable records and suggestions for future usage, the vision for Woodbank Hall extends beyond simple rejuvenation. It encapsulates an entire historical journey, from the brilliance of Thomas Harrison’s design to a refurbished tribute to his Greek revivalist style. A beacon of the past anchored in the present, prepared for the future.

Notable Individuals in the Woodbank Deeds

Let’s shed light on the luminary behind this architectural gem, Thomas Harrison. Birth records commend Richmond, Yorkshire, as his birthplace, bowing to the world on 7 August 1744. The son of a humble joiner, Harrison didn’t let the boundaries of his birthright limit his ambitions or his destiny.

Thomas spent his formative years in Rome, entranced by the grandiose allure of classical architecture. The city’s rich history and iconic edifices would later influence his work, grounding him in the principles of Greek Revival architecture. On his return to England, Thomas’ unique blend of classical training and innovative flair found a welcoming stage. In 1782, he clinched the winning spot in a competitive architectural showdown, a vote of confidence in his talent and a launchpad for his career.

In the Woodbank deeds, Thomas Harrison’s name shines as the architect responsible for Woodbank Hall. Despite its ongoing dilapidation, the Hall, compared to his other masterpieces, serves as a testament to Harrison’s genius. His underappreciated footprint on the architectural landscape forged a path for future generations to traverse. His legacy is mirrored in the pediments, columns, and friezes of the buildings he thoughtfully designed.

His passing on 29 March 1829 left an indelible imprint on English architecture. The Hall, though not the most renowned of his ensemble, encapsulates his knack for marrying function with style and a propensity for reviving the elegance of the past. Woodbank Hall not only served the local community but also showcased Harrison’s compelling interpretations of classical design.

In its current state, it might be hard to see the erstwhile grandeur of Woodbank Hall. Yet, once reminded of its original architect, the veil of neglect falls away, revealing a monument ingrained with stories and memories of Thomas Harrison’s pioneering designs. As a nation, we’re entrusted with preserving this built heritage, elbow-deep in a commitment to saving and restoring what truly contributes to our shared sense of place and time.

Historic Maps of Woodbank

So it’s clear that Woodbank Hall isn’t just an old building in need of repair. It’s a piece of Stockport’s history. It’s a testament to the genius of Thomas Harrison and his unique blend of classical training and innovative flair. The hall’s dilapidation is a pressing concern for Stockport Council and the Heritage Trust. But it’s also a chance for us to remember and appreciate the architectural treasures right on our doorstep. The high cost of repairs is daunting. Yet it’s worth remembering that preserving such historical sites isn’t just about maintaining old buildings. It’s about cherishing our shared heritage. It’s about ensuring that future generations can enjoy and learn from these architectural masterpieces. It’s a big task, but with careful planning and commitment, Woodbank Hall can once again stand proud.