Published Tuesday 8 December 2015 at 10:40
The Friends of Turton Tower are working with The Turton Tower Trust to refurbish the 17th century building on the grounds of the tower in Chapeltown.
Led by Councillor Jean Rigby, the Friends have formed a task group to run the “Save Our Stables” campaign, as the 30m x 20m site has been neglected for many years.
Built as a cow barn, it was updated in the 1800s with some original features remaining including a stone fireplace and a manger.
A community open day was held on Saturday (5) and residents put forward some ambitious ideas for how the site could be best used and a heritage expert helped discuss the possibilities.
Cllr Jean Rigby said: “We heard lots of brilliant ideas including a heritage and arts centre, a small craft business start-up centre, yoga centre, wedding venue and an equine therapy centre.
“After a few more consultation events we will be putting a business plan and funding bids together”.
A Heritage Lottery start-up grant worth 10,000 has been applied for to help fund the project.
If you want to have your say about the Stables, or would like to join the Save Our Stables support group, contact Cllr Jean Rigby or Tim Birch on 01254 585585.
(From left) Chris Turner, Pat Grainger, Amanda Grimshaw Tim Birch, Rick Bragg, Cllr Jean Rigby and Maggie Holt
Residents listen to some ideas about how the stables could be transformed.