Historic buildings on ‘at risk’ register (From Warrington Guardian)

Historic buildings on ‘at risk’ register

7:40am Sunday 27th July 2008 in News By Joanna Lean

Historic buildings on ‘at risk’ register

BEWSEY Old Hall is topping the list of buildings deemed “at risk” in Warrington by English Heritage.

The 16th century hall was last month secured in its current state when councillors voted against a redevelopment of the hall and its grounds.

The plans would have seen 57 apartments built there.

Last week, English Heritage published its ‘At Risk Register’ for 2008.

Four buildings in Warrington have been named on the list, which identifies buildings that are at risk through decay or neglect.

As well as Bewsey Old Hall, the Gate House to Bradlegh Old Hall on Bradley Lane, in Burtonwood, is also listed.

The gate house was built in 1460 and is a Grade II listed building. The report states it is in poor condition and needs repair.

Also on the list is the north barn at Hurst Hall, on Hurst Lane, in Glazebury.

The barn, also a Grade II listed building, has not been maintained and is missing roof tiles and guttering.

The fourth building classsed as being “at risk” is the transporter bridge at Crosfield’s.

The bridge is one of only two in the world and was built in 1904. It is no longer useable.

“The transporter bridge was a great feat of engineering,” said Clr Bob Barr (LD–Lymm).

“I want to find out what else people think should be protected in Warrington,” he said. For example, I have a bee in my bonnet about the high level bridge in Latchford, and I wonder what other people think should be preserved,” he said.

All four buildings have been on the register before. Their place on the register makes them eligible for grants from English Heritage to repair and restore them.

l Let us know what buildings you want to see saved in Warrington. E-mail joanna.lean@guardiangrp.co.uk