Wigan's Plantation Gates and Lodges to open after makeover with immersive art experience

The historic Plantation Gates and Lodges have undergone an extensive renovation as part of the £50m regeneration project at the park.

They have been turned into an art installation and visitors’ centre.

An opening event will take place on Saturday, July 4, with an opportunity to view an immersive visual experience in the North Lodge, developed by regional artists Leo Mercer and James Hooton.

Coun Chris Ready, Wigan Council’s 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 Infirmary and young people from Wigan Youth Zone.”

Workshops were held to help shape the vision for the experience.

Coun 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 by lots of visitors.”

The artwork, which is named What the Walls Remember, features music, light and storytelling that offers viewers a unique opportunity to learn about the lodges and Haigh’s history and landscape.

Workshop participants drew their favourite areas of Haigh, which have been incorporated into the eight-minute experience, exploring its history, historic woodland and the ongoing transformation.

Since work began on the grade II*-listed lodges on Wigan Lane last year, the roofs have been fully restored using Burlington blue slates – the same as those used on the hall and bothy cottages restoration.

The original chimneys have been reinstated, with a roof light added to the north lodge, and 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 style that would have been seen in the lodges historically and the colour matching the windows at the hall.

There has been a gentle stone clean on the exterior of the lodges and archway, while the gates and railings were sent off-site to be shot blasted, repaired and redecorated.

The work is part of the wider transformation of Haigh Woodland Park and Haigh Hall.

It will see the historic hall transformed, with an art gallery, children’s education area, event space for weddings and parties, rooftop terrace, restaurant, bar and much more.

Further improvements are being carried out across the park, with a woodland hub and comet trail set to be among new attractions.

The lodges will be free to access, but visiting needs to be booked via Eventbrite during the opening weekend.

Opening times are usually Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 2pm, though longer hours are planned for the opening weekend.