Lost Manchester ‘jewel’ in park to to be brought back from the brink

A lost north Manchester ‘jewel’ is set to reopen to the public after being hidden away for 12 years. Built between 1824 and 1832, Heaton Park’s Orangery last opened to the public in 2012, and is now in such poor condition it is on the Heritage at Risk Register. But new plans show the council wants to bring it back to life — by refurbishing it into a function room and dining space.

The grade-I listed Orangery needs new flooring, a full redecoration, new doors, upgraded toilets, and a full overhaul of the electrical and heating systems, Manchester City Council says. The project is part of the £2.1 million joint investment between the authority and Historic England.

In restoring the Orangery, the work is bringing back ‘a jewel in Heaton Park’s crown, said Coun Lee-Ann Igbon, the executive member for vibrant neighbourhoods. She added: ”We know that Heaton Hall is most definitely a jewel in Heaton Park’s crown and as custodians of this wonderful building we take our responsibility for its upkeep seriously. 

“The next step in this journey is bringing the Orangery, a much-loved part of Heaton Hall estate, back into use. We are determined to inject energy and vigour into this beautiful building and in the future work with a partner that will do it justice and bring it back into use as an events space to ensure its long-term future. I look forward to exciting times ahead.”

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The Hall and Park came into public ownership in 1902 when they were sold by the 5th Earl of Wilton to Manchester Corporation. Just over a century later, the Friends of Heaton Hall was founded — and its chair David Blood said the restoration is the perfect way to celebrate  its 20th anniversary.

“We are excited by the news and hope that more people will get to experience a special place that is Heaton Hall,” he said.