THE future of one of England’s most decadent country houses over 180-years-old is looking bleak – and now sits derelict and vandalised.
The historic Trentham Hall, in Trentham Gardens near Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire has been labelled ‘at risk’ on the English Heritage register – and could cost around £35million to restore.
FacebookTrentham Hall has been deemed ‘at risk’ register on the English Heritage register[/caption]
FacebookThe estate – now run down – was once one of England’s grandest country houses[/caption]
FacebookDevelopers have planning permission to restore the site but costs are too high[/caption]
Alamy2RH04WE Trentham Estate Gardens, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England[/caption]
Pollution from the River Trent caused by ‘upstream industrial activity’ wrecked the estate – and now the latest economic recession is taking its toll on the once-exquisite building.
The Grade II listed building was abandoned in the early 20th century following the damage, and now faces an uncertain future as the expense of restoring the historic estate continues to grow.
While much of the hall was demolished in 1912, some structures, including the main entrance, clock tower, and sculpture gallery, remain standing.
The 725-acre estate’s history stretches back to 1086 and has been home to prominent figures, including the Dukes of Sutherland.
The hall itself was extensively redesigned in the 1830s by Sir Charles Barry, who later became famous for rebuilding the Houses of Parliament.
Sir Barry’s renovations included state rooms, servants’ quarters, a sculpture gallery, a clock tower and a grand entrance adorned with the family coat of arms.
The River Trent was incorporated into the gardens, flowing into an ornamental lake.
After years of decline, the estate was acquired by developer St Modwen in 1996.
The gardens, long neglected and overgrown, were carefully restored and reopened in 2004, now welcoming around three million visitors annually.
The Italian Gardens were recently revitalised by award-winning designer Tom Stuart-Smith and continue to be maintained by a dedicated team.
Plans to fully restore Trentham Hall, including converting it into a conference hotel, have received planning approval.
However, the estimated £30–35 million cost has delayed progress.
Mike Herbert, regional director at St Modwen, said: “We remain committed to restoring the hall.
“The challenge is making the project financially viable in the current climate.”
Dr Simon Thurley, chief executive of English Heritage, highlighted the importance of preserving historic buildings.
He explained: “Grade II-listed sites form a key part of our national heritage.
“Losing one is like losing a piece of history. Trentham Hall is a valuable landmark that deserves careful attention.”
While the main building awaits a potential restoration plan, visitors can continue to enjoy the estate’s restored gardens, fountains and sculptures.
The sprawling Staffordshire estate is home to award-winning gardens and the country’s only monkey forest.
The Monkey Forest is home to 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques, with visitors able to walk among the monkeys in a natural setting.
Other animals also live inside Trentham Estate with Beaver Safaris taking place in the wetlands.
Trentham Estate has been given a 4.5/5 star rating from thousands of reviews on TripAdvisor.
FacebookGrand plans for the 180-year-old Trentham Hall estate have been put on hold[/caption]
FacebookThe cost of repairs for the historic building are too high for developers[/caption]
FacebookDevelopers say it will cost £30-35million to restore the building[/caption]
FacebookThe Grade II-listed building now sits derelict and vandalised[/caption]
The 725-acre Grade II listed estate Trentham Hall dates back 180 yearsAlamy
AlamyThe Italian-style building has award-winning gardens and the country’s only monkey forest[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
