AN IMPORTANT 18th century grand hall has been deemed ‘at risk’ by a preservation group because of water damage and neglect.
Hales Hall was built in 1712 in honour of Matthew Hale, a barrister and judge during the reign of Charles II.
But now national heritage body Historic England claims the Grade II-listed building in Oakamoor Road is at the mercy of vandals.
And shocked historians are calling for action to be taken to help save the building, which most recently was run as a clubhouse and bar.
Mark Hartwell, secretary of Staffordshire Heritage Group, said: “I wasn’t aware that the hall had actually been put on the at risk register. But we need to find a way that it can be conserved. None of us want to lose historic buildings.
“When they are gone, they are gone, the grandeur of the hall can never be replaced.”
Michael Plant, of Cheadle and District Historical Society, said: “The hall’s decline is very sad.
“The building is very beautiful and an important part of Cheadle’s past.”
“I have read about it quite extensively and have enjoyed seeing it for myself too.”
Hales Hall was put on the market this year for £480,000 through Donald Cope Estate Agents in Cheadle.
It was bought by the owner of Hales Hall Caravan and Camping Park, Jeff Wood, in the autumn.
Mr Wood, aged 66, who lives at the park he has owned for seven years, said: “I purchased the hall in October and we are currently embarking on a lengthy restoration project.”
The hall is built on Cheadle Grange – also known as Cheadle Hounds – which once belonged to the monks of Croxden Abbey.
In 1653 part of the land came under the ownership of Matthew Hale.
When he died in 1676 his portion was divided between his three granddaughters, including Frances Grosvenor.
She had Hales Hall built in about 1712 and named it after her grandfather. The hall remained within the family until 1830.
A spokesman for Historic England said: “The condition of the house has deteriorated, with water ingress from the roof of particular concern.
“After staying as a family home for several generations, the house is now not being used and its condition is steadily declining, with a leaking roof, rotting timbers, ferns growing from the gutters and broken and missing windows.
“Sadly, it is also vulnerable to vandalism.”
In the 1940s the Hall became the property of the Bolton family who used it as accommodation for business visitors.
Later it was sold to Staffordshire County Council who used it as an outward bounds centre for children.
In the early 1980s it passed back into private ownership, which is when the camp-site on the land was first developed.
A Staffordshire Moorlands District Council spokesman said: “Whilst we do not have the resources ourselves, we would be happy to work with Historic England and the owners of Hales Hall on any plans they may have.”
