Plan to reopen 'lost jewel' in Heaton Park to the public

The Orangery in Heaton Park has been closed to the public since 2012

A Georgian-era building described as a lost "jewel" could be given a new lease of life after being closed to the public for more than a decade.

Manchester City Council has submitted plans to refurbish the function room at the Orangery in Heaton Park.

Built between 1824 and 1832, the Grade I listed building last opened in 2012.

Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon said the authority was "determined to inject energy and vigour into this beautiful building".

"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," she added.

If plans are approved the project is expected to take five months

New floors, a full redecoration, new doors, upgraded toilets, and an overhaul of the electrical and heating systems have been planned for the Orangery.

A council spokesman said a private operator would be sought to run the space once the work was complete.

'Special place'

It comes after the council and Historic England spent £2.1m to protect the exterior of the building.

Heaton Hall and Park entered 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 was 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.

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