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Haigh Hall transformation begins

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The £6m transformation of Haigh Hall has begun with work well under way to restore the Grand Ballroom to its former glory.

The partnership deal between Wigan Council and Contessa Hotels was signed earlier this week marking the start of a major restoration of the Grade II* listed building into a four-star boutique hotel complete with 30 bedrooms, a spa and fitness centre.

Councillor David Molyneux, deputy leader of Wigan Council and cabinet member for economy, said: “We’re delighted to have finalised this partnership with Contessa Hotels, marking the start of a new era for Haigh Hall. This deal secures a thriving future for the building and ensures it can continue to be enjoyed by members of the public now and for years to come.

“The hotel will also play a huge part in our wider plans to transform Haigh Woodland Park in to one of the region’s top tourist destinations, boosting the local economy and reducing the maintenance burden for taxpayers by £8m over the next decade.”

Councillor Paul Kenny, cabinet member for leisure at Wigan Council, added: “Haigh Hall has long been known as the ‘jewel in Wigan’s crown’, with the site holding memories for many people who have grown up in the borough, whether they remember playing in the park as a child or celebrating their wedding at the hall.

“It is fantastic that we have been able to strike up this partnership with Contessa Hotels and invest in the site during difficult economic times. I’m looking forward to seeing the project coming to fruition and see the sparkle put back into this fabulous building.”

Contessa Hotels is providing the investment for the refurbishment of the hall, while the council will remain owners and landlords.

Craig Baker, Director of Contessa Hotels, said: “We are really pleased to be investing in Haigh Hall and excited to get the project moving. This time has been integral for planning for the different phases of development and some work has already started in certain rooms in the hall and the difference is staggering.

“The main first phase will be transforming the ground floor ballroom and restaurant by the middle of July, then the next major phase will be completing the first 12 bedrooms by the start of autumn.”

Craig continues: “We are excited to take the public on the journey with us – from start to finish, with all the photos of the transformation documented on our website.”

The £12m master plan for Haigh Woodland Park is already taking shape on site, with plans for the new adventure play already completed and infrastructure works in progress. A planning application has been submitted for an innovative adventure golf course, which if approved could be on site in autumn along with a new high ropes attraction which is scheduled to open in August. A Kitchen Courtyard, providing a base for some of the region’s best artisan food and drink producers, is also being developed and will open its doors at the end of summer.

The woodland park activities will be managed by leisure trust Inspiring healthy lifestyles. Gareth Cross, Chair of Trustees of Inspiring healthy lifestyles, who manage the Woodland Park said: “We’re looking forward to working with Contessa on future projects which enhance and promote this wonderful location to the whole of the north west. The development at Haigh is one the most exciting projects we’ve ever been involved in. It will be a regionally significant attraction once all the work has been completed providing a great family day out.”

Find out more about Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall Hotel.

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