The historic Orangery at Heaton Park is set to be transformed into a ‘high-quality dining and event space’, Manchester City Council has confirmed.
Part of the Grade I-listed Heaton Hall, dubbed ‘the jewel in Heaton Park’s crown’, the Orangery has not been open to the public for 12 years, and will undergo a huge refurbishment as part of plans submitted to the council.
£2.1 million was invested by the council and Historic England in works securing the outside of the building completed in 2018 and 2019.
New plans will see the space given new flooring, a full redecoration, new doors, upgraded toilets and a full overhaul of the electrical and heating systems, including a new low carbon air source heat pump in line with the council’s commitment to become zero carbon by 2038.
Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods said: “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.
“The next step in this journey is bringing the Orangery, a much-loved part of Heaton Hall estate, back into use. We are determined to inject energy and vigour into this beautiful building and in the future work with a partner that will do it justice and bring it back into use as an events space to ensure its long-term future. I look forward to exciting times ahead.”
David Blood, Chair of Friends of Heaton Hall said: “The Friends of Heaton Hall is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year and we look forward to continuing to work alongside the Council and Historic England to restore the Orangery so that it can open its doors to visitors once again.
“We are excited by the news and hope that more people will get to experience a special place that is Heaton Hall.”
