Rochdale historic home transformation to community arts space aided by support of local housebuilder

A Rochdale historic home, which is being transformed into a community arts space, has seen a boost to its renovation work, thanks to support from local housebuilder, Barratt Homes North West.

Hare Hill House, in the centre of Littleborough, successfully applied for funds through David Wilson Homes (DWH) North West’s charitable and community scheme, North West Community Fund. DWH operates alongside Barratt Homes North West, which is developing new homes in Rochdale.

Historic Hare Hill House was home to the Newall family for hundreds of years but has been in decline since they moved out. Since then, the Save Hare Hill House campaign has stepped in and had plans approved to transform the landmark property into a self-financing community arts and micro-business centre for the people of Littleborough. The campaign applied to North West Community Fund and secured funding to renovate and paint several rooms in this important local building.

Andrew Taylor, North West Community Fund Project Coordinator, comments: “David Wilson Homes and Barratt Homes are dedicated to building strong communities in areas surrounding our developments. Hare Hill House is a fantastic landmark and a reminder of the local area’s history which we are keen to help preserve. As a team we were only too happy to step in and help to protect and repair parts of this building which is set to see a new lease of life as a great community facility for Rochdale and its neighbouring towns.”

The North West Community Fund scheme offers support to community groups in the region through volunteering time or funding.  Applications can be made through its website: www.northwestcommunityfund.co.uk.

Barratt Homes North West is developing fantastic homes for couples and small families at Brindley Gardens in Rochdale. The site features homes for a range of homeowners, including first time buyers looking to make use of schemes such as Help to Buy. The sales centre is open 12.30-5.30pm on Mondays and 10am-5.30pm Thursday to Sunday. Show homes at the site will be open for viewings in May. For further information on the site, please visit: www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/greater-manchester/H727601-Brindley-Gardens/.

DWH North West and Barratt Homes North West have both recently scooped a prestigious Five Star award by the National Home Builder’s Federation (NHF) for the seventh consecutive year – the only national housebuilders to achieve this accolade.