Repairs are being planned at a historic hall in Stockport which was left in a state of dereliction.

Woodbank Hall – a grade II listed Georgian villa based in Woodbank Park – has fallen into a state of disrepair and was included on Save Britain’s Heritage’s ‘buildings at risk’ register.

A plan by Stockport council to invest £250,000 and save the building from abandonment looks to be underway.

A planning application has been submitted for initial repairs, to try to tackle some of the problems causing damage to the building.

It stated that Woodbank Hall has been empty for eight years, and that nothing has been agreed over its future use despite several suggestions.

Repairs highlighted in the planning application included stopping water leaking inside, as well as new security measures to prevent people gaining access.

If approved, single storey outbuildings around the historic hall will be demolished, with new fencing installed.

(Image - John Fidler)

The main section of the hall will get a temporary flat roof, and rainwater downpipes and gutters are set to be replaced.

Vegetation to the stonework is also set to be removed, with any sections disturbed during the process ‘made good.’

The application stated: ‘The proposals have been designed to remove the hazards associated with the dilapidated out buildings that have been subject to several instances of antisocial behaviour.’

It added: ‘Works have been designed to ensure that the appearance and condition of the existing fabric of the main building is not harmed.’

Last year, Stockport council was criticised over the speed of its response in salvaging the building.

John Fidler, a former conservation director at English Heritage, claimed not enough had been done to protect the site, calling the situation one of “simple neglect”.

The town hall pointed out that work to remove asbestos had already taken place, and that further repairs were being planned.

Stockport Heritage Trust has campaigned to raise awareness about Woodbank Hall, after a statement which said it was “concerned about the welfare and future use” of the building.

Woodbank Hall dates to 1814 and was given to the borough of Stockport and its people in the early 20th century.

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