Trafford Borough Council planning service is proposing to remove the Conservation Area status given in 1986 to ‘Halecroft – the former house, then council Offices and now commercial office that stands in Halecroft Park, Hale Road, Hale. The public are invited to comment on the proposal, which is part of a broader planning review of Trafford’s Local Plan.
Designed in 1890, ‘Halecroft’ is Edgar Wood’s first masterpiece, a flamboyant Arts and Crafts beauty. It is listed grade II* and is described in the listing as “an excellent example of Wood’s earlier work largely expressing the ideals of the Arts and Crafts Movement and the vernacular revival.” The house is sited at the northern end of its large grounds, which includes mature trees an early Arts & Crafts garden designed by Wood. It is a popular place for local people.
While the listing would remain in place, the conservation area status is being removed as part of sweeping changes proposed for South Hale Conservation Area. The reasons are given in an appraisal of the conservation area and appear to be poorly stated. The Edgar Wood Society has joined the Friends of Halecroft Park in objecting to the change. The conservation area protects the broad character and appearance of Halecroft, the park and the wonderfully wooded street scene. The assemblage would be significantly less protected against intrusive housing or other development as a consequence of the proposed change.
If you wish to comment on the proposal, simply email strategic planning at Trafford with your views strategic.planning@trafford.gov.uk
To download a pdf of the draft appraisal click on South Hale Conservation Area Appraisal. Trafford Council’s strategic planning service web page is here