Plans to convert a dilapidated historic Salford mansion into 16 new apartments have been delayed, with a planning decision now expected at the end of October.
Oakwood Hall, originally built on Radcliffe Park Crescent, Irlams o’ th’ Height, between 1859 and 1866, has been empty and neglected since 2013.
The building was designed by renowned architect Alfred Waterhouse, whose work includes Manchester Town Hall, Eaton Hall and London’s Natural History Museum.
The mansion, constructed in the Italian Renaissance style, was nicknamed Teapot Hall as it was commissioned by Thomas Binyon, a member of the prominent tea merchant firm Binyon and Robinson.
The Hall has remained vacant since 2013, following decades of varied use. In 1923, the building served as the Pilkington nurses’ home, accommodating up to 25 nurses, and was most recently a care home.
Would-be developer Neil Pike Architects said: “The care home ceased operation in 2013 and the building has remained vacant since, falling victim to anti-social behaviour and disrepair.
“The site has suffered neglect, leading to overgrowths within the house, smashed windows, stolen lead work and dry damp throughout, as well as significant flooding at both ground and basement level.
“The general lack of maintenance within have contributed towards the fundamental need to restore this building.”
The developers aim to retain and restore the building’s exterior, including the original stonework, windows and entrance details, ensuring all changes are sensitive to the building’s historical significance.
A decision on the plans was initially due by September 29 but there has now been a delay.
A spokesperson from Neil Pike Architects said: “We are working alongside Salford City Council and have mutually agreed to push back the approval date to the end of this month, due to slight issues in the planning.”
Local residents have responded positively to the proposal. On Facebook Andrea Skeldon commented: “A building of such age should be saved. Too many beautiful buildings no longer exist. If turning it into apartments preserves, it’s façade and history then why not?”
Mary Ferrer added: “We have lost a lot of buildings of historical interest in Salford over the years. If this planning application keeps the façade and helps bring it back to life it can only be for the better.”
Market research conducted in Salford suggest a strong preference for one-bed units to help meet the city’s housing shortage. The internal layout plans to offer 11 one-bed units, and five two-bed units.
The layout has been designed to maximise natural light, ventilation and living space while respecting original structural form.
The revised decision date is now expected by the end of October.
