Plans to transform Stockport Council run Bramall Hall into a regional heritage attraction are moving a step closer.
Last year the Council was awarded a £1.6 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to realise the benefit of the building for local people.
A recent grant from the Wolfson Foundation will help to support the creation of a new orientation room which will set the historic hall building in context and give people a free taster of what’s on offer in the hall. This will also give a space to those who are not physically able to access the upper floors to see objects from the collection and access audio-visual materials.
The design team led by building conservation specialist architect’s Lloyd Evans Prichard have been chosen for their experience in the field. They are currently developing the existing plans further with a view to seeking a suitably qualified contractor to carry out the physical works.
Also, as part of the project the Council has appointed the agent CBRE to source an operator to run the renovated café/tea room.
The café, which is due to open in September 2015, will be located within the former stable block at the gated entrance to the newly landscaped walled gardens. The design combines original features with contemporary design reflective of the setting and will provide an appealing environment for visitors to the hall and park users.
Any enquiries should be made direct to Lorna Pass at CBRE by 29th August at Lorna.Pass@cbre.com or 0161 233 5453.
Councillor Patrick McAuley, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said:
“I’m delighted that the Bramall Hall project is gathering pace.
“Bramall Hall is a historic building of major significance and this funding will help unlock the attractions potential to more Stockport residents, school pupils and tourists, by making it a much more interactive experience. Bramall Hall is a gem on the doorsteps of Stockport residents and the funding is only going to add to the prestige of the building and provide a tremendous legacy for generations to come.”
The three year project will repair the Grade I listed historic hall including the 16th century plaster ceiling in the Withdrawing Room, instate disabled adapatations to allow more people to visit, provide much needed new education rooms to cater for school parties and community groups and create a new events area in the walled garden. A programme of free events will encourage Stockport’s residents to visit this important historic site.
The overall cost of the project is £2 million which also includes funding from Stockport Council who own and manage the Grade I Listed building. The Friends of Bramall Hall and Park have raised a substantial sum to transform the existing shop into a Victorian Breakfast Room that will provide another glimpse into life at the hall for visitors. They and other volunteers will also contribute their time in kind to the project. The Friends run regular gardening sessions at Bramhall Park and will also restore the Victorian rockery during the project.
For further details of the project and of opportunities to become involved and volunteer visit www.stockport.gov.uk/bramall