Plantation Gates - Completed Restoration
This is an on-going project to halt the deterioration of the Gate & Lodges.
In 2016 Wigan Building Preservation Trust (BPT) commissioned a Condition report (see below)
Currently the restoration of the building is included in a Wigan Council (Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles) application for Heritage Lottery Funding.
October 2022
Heritage Lottery Funding has been secured for the restoration of the Lodges and Gates.
Within the approved planning application a Design, Access & Heritage Statement was submitted. The BPT are encouraged that the gate and lodges will be restored to their former glory ..... and more!
Contents of the Statement
Update Jan 2025
Update – July 2026
After many years of campaigning and support from the Wigan Building Preservation Trust, the restoration of the Grade II* listed Plantation Gates and Lodges has now been completed. The project has transformed one of Wigan's most recognisable historic landmarks, securing its future for generations to come. The restored gates once again provide a magnificent entrance to Haigh Woodland Park, while the two lodges have been sensitively renovated, preserving their historic character while providing new public facilities.
The South Lodge now serves as a visitor information centre, while the North Lodge houses an immersive art installation inspired by the history, landscape and people of Haigh. The restoration also included the repair and reinstatement of the historic gates and railings, rebuilding of the boundary walls, new roofs, traditional sash windows, stonework conservation and improved accessibility. The project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Wigan Council, represents a major investment in Wigan's heritage and demonstrates what can be achieved through partnership working.
The Wigan Building Preservation Trust is particularly pleased that its early intervention in commissioning a professional Condition Survey in 2016 helped demonstrate the urgent need for action. The Trust has consistently championed the conservation of the Plantation Gates and Lodges, and it is immensely rewarding to see this iconic gateway restored to its former splendour and once again playing an important role in welcoming visitors to Haigh Woodland Park.
A sincere thank you to everyone involved at Wigan Council, along with all partners, contractors, volunteers and supporters who helped make this remarkable restoration a reality.
A bit of History......
From Wigan Observer 20th October 1905:
DRINKING WHISKEY OUT OF THE GUTTER
RELAXATION WHILE LOOKING FOR WORK.
A somewhat unusual scene was witnessed near the Plantation Gatos. Wigan-lane, on Monday afternoon. A keg of whiskey had fallen off a brewer’s dray, and been spilled in the road. Many loafers who were in the vicinity, hearing what had taken place, were soon on the scene. With spoons and other articles they started ladling the whiskey out of the gutter, and they continued this disgusting behaviour until they were all more or less drunk. Two of them were found in an incapable state, and were taken to the police station. On Tuesday they were charged before Messrs. T.Fyans and J. Heaton with the offence.
The first defendant was Arthur Gallaghan, of 5. Egerton Street, and Police-constable Percival stated that he was so drunk that he had to get a horse and cart to take him to the police station.
Prisoner (smiling): I was out looking for work, and a cask of whiskey was spilled on the road. We were supping it with spoons.
Mr. Fyans : I saw you.
Prisoner : I got too many spoonfuls, and I fell in the street. I was out from six in the morning looking for work, and that was the first relief I got. (Laughter.) A friend of mine said, “Come along, mate, and have a spoonful or so." and I did.
The bench let him off with a warning.
Robert Shaw. who has no settled address, was also charged with being drunk and incapable.
This man had to be helped to the bars of the dock, and it was then noticed that he was still in a state of intoxication.
He was remanded until Wednesday.
Another man found in Wallgate in a similar state, made the excuse that a friend of his had got the whiskey in Wigan-lane, and given it to him. He had been before the court previously, and he was sent to prison for fourteen days.
Shawcross was brought before Messrs. D.Dix and J.Peterkin on Wednesday. He was still in a very dozed condition, and appeared to be suffering keenly from the effects of his debauch. He pleaded guilty to being drunk and incapable.
The Chairman: He is not sober yet!
The Chief Constable: He is suffering from a bad head. The whiskey was 20 over proof.
The magistrates discharged him.