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Expressions of interest are being sought by Colliers, on behalf of Historic England, for acquisition of the freehold or long leasehold of Baguley Hall to an occupier who will ‘restore and operate the building in a sympathetic way’.
Set in two acres of grounds, the 600 year old hall is one of Manchester's four most historic buildings – Grade I Listed and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The current hall may be on the site of an earlier hall, dating possibly from the 11th or 12th century.
Colliers are marketing the property as flexible building suited to many commercial (and non-commercial) uses, including hospitality, subject to planning.
As reported in our August 2023 issue, critical works had been completed by Historic England, but funds were lacking to restore the whole of the ancient building.
The aim was to continue preservation work to bring the building into a usable state and create a space for community and business.
A feasibility study was completed to establish options for use and English Heritage prepared a brief to establish interest in operating the building.
Indicative plans, with cost estimates, have been prepared by Thomas Ford and Partners conservation architects and IKS cost consultants for several uses, subject to planning.
These include a food-based pub (with or without bedrooms), boutique hotel and an events centre and will be made available to interested parties.
North West regional director at Historic England Catherine Dewar said: “Baguley Hall is a south Manchester historic gem. Standing for nearly 900 years, it boasts the most incredible great hall with tall, mullioned windows and unusual timber frame.
“We’re looking forward to working with Colliers to find prospective buyers or long-term tenants to find an exciting new use for this stunning site.”
Vice chairman and heritage research officer of the Friends of Baguley Hall (FoBH) Libby Edwards said: "We've been working with Historic England for a number of years to find a viable and sustainable future use for the hall. Baguley Hall is a much-loved building of great historical and architectural importance.
"To help preserve and care for it, it needs to be in regular use and unfortunately this has not been possible for a long time.
"The motto of FoBH is 'Community, Heritage,Regeneration – Baguley Hall sits at the heart of the community and is a treasured heritage asset. For regeneration to take place, it needs investment and hopefully by offering the building for sale or on a long-lease basis it will be possible to maintain it for the enjoyment of future generations.
"It's important to make it clear that the conditions of the sale ensure that the hall must still be accessible to the public. FoBH will continue to exist and champion the safeguarding of the hall for the community and support anything that ensures a positive long-term future."
Submissions to Colliers are invited by 12 noon on 15 July 2024 following which detailed proposals will be invited from short listed parties.
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