Walton Hall work about to start

WORK is expected to start next month on major extensions to Warrington’s Walton Hall.
F. Parkinson Ltd have been appointed to carry out the work, which includes a new extension at the rear of the building, constructed on the footprint of part of the original building which was demolished in the 1970s.
The council says the extension, which will include new public toilets for people using the formal gardens, bowling green and crazy golf, has been carefully designed to reflect its historic setting and to complement the Grade 2 Listed building.
One of the best used areas of the parkland surround the hall is the children’s zoo and playground and the team at Walton Hall have not neglected this area in the new plans.
A new family-friendly WC and baby-change facility will be constructed near the entrance to the zoo, providing facilities closer to the play areas that are accessible to everyone.
Cllr Kate Hannon, the borough council’s lead member for leisure, community and culture, said: “This is an exciting development for the town and for the region as we know Walton Hall and Gardens is a valued and much loved tourist attraction.
“Crowds of people flock to Walton Hall and Gardens throughout the year and they will no doubt be very excited to see the brand new facility next year.”
The work is expected to be completed by next spring.
Walton Hall, originally the home of the Greenall brewery family, was purchased by the local authority in 1941 for £18,000.
It stood deteriorating for years while councillors argued about what to do with it. Some regarded it as a “Victorian monstrosity” while others believed it to be a historic asset. It re-opened in 1984 after a £300,000 facelift.