There were cheers and applause in Wythenshawe today as the town welcomed back its ‘iconic’ Tudor Hall.
Wythenshawe Hall, in the town’s park, was destroyed by arsonist Jeremy Taylor in March 2016. He was jailed for four-and-a-half years in 2017, having admitted his heinous attack on the building .
Six years and £6.7 million later, the building was officially reopened to the public by the Lord Mayor of the City of Manchester, Donna Ludford. She spoke to crowds who waited for hours outside the gates this morning to catch a glimpse of the renovated space.
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“This grade II listed building, in historic parkland, has been brought back to life following a devastating fire in 2016,” the Lord Mayor said. “I cannot believe it’s been six years, it’s crazy.
“After exceptional forensic conservation work, the building is a joy to experience, and the skill and sensitivity of the restoration work has, if anything, added new levels of interest to this outstanding building.
“The iconic building has been restored to its former glory so it can, once again, be open to the public. The dedicated Friends of Wythenshawe Hall group has stayed committed throughout the six year project. It is great to welcome you all here today to celebrate the opening of our much-loved Wythenshawe Hall.”
Home of the Tatton Family for more than 600 years, the Manchester Evening News was one of the first to be shown inside the space. Plans are in the works to have guided tours operate in the new year, it’s understood.
The building has been lovingly cared for in such a way that it is often impossible to tell which parts of the fabric of the structure survived the inferno, and which have been created to fill a gap. It features the family crest of the Tattons, featuring a greyhound, and a blue plaque for the Simon family, who bought the building for the public good in 1926.
Work has also been done to ensure another arson attack does not take place. Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon, explained: "Wythenshawe Hall is a magnificent building which is not only to close the hearts of many people in Wythenshawe, but sheds light on the fascinating history of our city.
"After the Hall was forced to close due to an arson attack in 2016, Manchester City Council has carried out over £6.7 m of extensive refurbishment works to repair the damage and have enhanced security upgrades to the Hall, to protect it from further damage and to allow the public to enjoy the building once again.
"I know a lot of people will be happy to see the Hall's doors open once again. It is a great honour to be attending the event and to be a part of such an important part of history.”
Wythenshawe Hall is open from today, between 12noon and 5pm, and will also be open on Sunday, October 16.
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The secret cake outlet shop with cut-price caterpillar cakes, brownies, flapjacks and all sorts
