The historic 15th century Manchester hall where CCTV is needed to combat vandalism problems

A Grade II* listed hall in Manchester will have enhanced security work carried out after a string of vandalism incidents. 

Clayton Hall is a 15th century building with a moat that is currently used as a Living History Museum by the Friends of Clayton Park. There have been a series of security issues and serious vandalism incidents at the hall which have demonstrated the need for improved security, planning documents have said. 

This is why the council has proposed works to include six CCTV cameras, two motion detectors and two horn speakers in order to deter future vandals coming to the Ashton New Road site. 

This will form part of ongoing repair works already taking place to repair the outer moat which is in very poor and deteriorating condition. The heritage report states that this development will not not cause harm to the heritage hall and will be beneficial to the long term use and conservation of the asset.

Coun Luthfur Rahman, deputy leader of Manchester City Council said: “We are currently in the process of arranging fabric repair works to Clayton Hall and its immediate surroundings.  As part of this programme of works, the council is taking the opportunity to enhance security on site with the installation of CCTV cameras in order to protect a historic asset.”

On Saturdays, the hall typically attracts an average of 40-50 people across the day. The school and adult group visits are typically for around 30 visitors. 

Due to the size of the hall visitor numbers within the hall are restricted to a maximum of 60 people at one time, although externally the grounds can accommodate any waiting visitors. Special events are held at key times in the Calendar, the busiest event is the Christmas open day which in the past has attracted 100 children plus their parents across the day.