An iconic part of Haigh Woodland Park is set to open to the public after a multi-million pound makeover.
The historic Plantation Gates and Lodges have undergone an extensive renovation, turning them into an art installation and visitors’ centre.
A grand opening event will take place on Saturday 4 July with an opportunity to view the immersive visual experience in the North Lodge, developed by regional artists Leo Mercer and James Hooton
Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “I can’t wait to see residents enjoying the Lodges for the first time. Everyone knows the Gates and Lodges and have wanted to get inside, now is your chance!
“The artwork is looking great, the immersive experience brings something new to Haigh and the borough, developed in partnership with former residents of the lodges, visitors, staff and volunteers at Haigh Woodland Park, Royal Albert Edward Infimary and young people from Wigan Youth Zone.”
Workshops helped to shape the vision for the experience.
Councillor Ready added: “The aim of these workshops was to really bring the story of Haigh to life, for people of all ages to have input into artwork that we hope will be seen lots of visitors.”
The bespoke artwork named What the Walls Remember has been designed and produced by the artists a team of illustrators. Their vision is brought to life through music, light and storytelling that offers viewers a unique opportunity to learn about the lodges and Haigh’s history and landscape.
Participants of the workshops were encouraged to draw their favourite areas of Haigh, which have been incorporated into the eight-minute experience, exploring Haigh’s history, the historic woodland and the on-going transformation.
Since work began on the Grade II* Listed Lodges last year, the roofs on each lodge have been fully restored using Burlington Blue Slates, these slates are the same that have been used on the Hall & Bothy Cottages restoration.
The original chimneys have been reinstated with a roof light being added to the North lodge to allow natural light into the building. Stone repairs have been completed as well as mortar raking out and repointing.
Bespoke window frames have been installed, with traditional sash windows in keeping with the original style that would have been seen in the lodges historically with the colour matching the windows on the Hall.
We have also completed a gentle stone clean on the exteriors of the lodges and arch way.
The gates and railings have been sent off site to be shot blasted, repaired and redecorated.
The Lodges will be free to access, but need to be booked during opening weekend. Visitors can book a slot for the opening on Eventbrite, with the link found on the Haigh Woodland Park website.
Opening times are usually Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 2pm. Longer hours are planned for the opening weekend. Find out more information here.
Image: Artist impression of front Plantation Gates and Lodges.
