The development
John Southworth and Stockport Homes worked collaboratively on this complex restoration development transforming a truly iconic heritage building into 45 homes.
Located on Hempshaw Lane, Offerton, just over a mile from Stockport Centre, the development is perfectly located close to the many local shops, markets, bars and restaurants Stockport has to offer, with the added benefit of great transport links and surrounding country parks, including the Peak District.
The apartments on this project were sympathetically restored, retaining many original features, whilst offering plenty of new and exciting character features – all paying homage to the rich heritage of the factory. Testament to the level of care taken in this unique project was the 16,000 hours spent on restoring the original brick and stonework alone… by hand, using traditional methods!
Stockport played a prolific role in the Hatting Industry, predominantly in the manufacture of fur felt hats. Originally opening its gates in 1886 and rebuilt in 1906 following a fire, Battersby Hat Works was world-renowned in its heyday for producing high-quality hats and at its peak, the factory was producing 12,000 units per week.
As time went by, the once-booming industry fell into gradual decline, leading to the factory closing its gates for the final time in 1997. This majestic building, which once stood tall and proud in the area, sadly went into neglect over the years and the regeneration project almost didn’t happen following the dissolution of the previous developers!
Supported by Homes England, the Brownfield Grant Programme and Viaduct Housing Partnership (a collaboration between Stockport Homes and Stockport Council), thankfully, this extraordinary development went ahead, safeguarding the important heritage of the area.
Projects of this magnitude, no matter how big or small, come with their own set of challenges however due to the resilience and determination of all involved, Battersby Hat Works will once again stand tall and proud in its new role in providing much-needed homes to the area for many more years to come.
