A group opposed to a 432-home scheme in Wigan have hit out at developer’s promises to restore a run-down historic hall as part of the plans.

Kingswood Homes is behind the blueprint for the restoration of Winstanley Hall along with building a new neighbourhood on surrounding land.

The developer said the proposals involve a “sensitive restoration” of the former home of the Bankes family, converting the Grade II-listed building and outbuildings into 36 apartments and houses, alongside a heritage centre and flexible community space.

They also want to build 396 new homes and community amenities, including a woodland walk and community orchard.

An artist's impression of what Winstanley Hall would look like after renovation and conversion into flats

placeholder image — An artist's impression of what Winstanley Hall would look like after renovation and conversion into flats

The hall has been a tragic eyesore for many years with many other projects to breathe new life into it falling by the wayside.

But the group, Save Winstanley Greenbelt, is opposed to the proposls and has called for alternative schemes to be considered to restore the hall, “without sacrificing the green space that residents hold dear.”

A petition on the change.org site has more been supported by more than 500 people.

It reads: “Winstanley Hall is a cherished heritage site, a testament to our rich history, and an emblem of our community’s cultural identity.

Winstanley Hall has been derelict for many years

"Recently, there has been a proposal to develop 400 houses on green belt land in Winstanley.

“This move allegedly supports the ‘restoration’ of Winstanley Hall.

"However, upon delving into the planning documents and communications, it becomes evident that the proposal may not fully align with its purported goals.

“The development could compromise an irreplaceable environmental asset, undermining both the aesthetic and ecological value of the region. Green belt land is protected for a reason.

“We call upon the developers and Wigan Council to halt this proposal, reassess the plan with genuine consideration for both historical and environmental stewardship, and explore alternative solutions that do not risk degrading our protected land.”

Originating as a medieval manorial centre, a hall has stood at Winstanley since the 13th century.

It has endured more than 25 years of neglect, with its condition deteriorating rapidly since 2017.

Roof collapses, structural failures, and encroaching vegetation have led to its current state of disrepair.

Kingswood said that the Winstanley Hall development “represents a unique opportunity to save one of Wigan’s most historic landmarks while creating a sustainable, high-quality residential community for future generations.”

It added: “This ambitious project will restore and re-purpose Winstanley Hall and open part of its grounds to the public for the very first time.

“The proposed new development includes 396 new one- to five-bedroom homes, thoughtfully designed to meet the region’s family and affordable housing needs.”

In December 2025, Historic England gave its support to the proposals to restore the hall and its outbuildings.

The heritage organisation said the residential conversion of the hall represent a ‘last chance’ to secure the future of the buildings.

It also welcomed the plans for the introduction of publicly accessible footpaths within the parkland, which it said will allow people to experience the historic buildings up close for the first time.