Heritage trail set to celebrate rich history
ABRAND-NEW Middleton heritage trail is being created and the team behind it is asking local residents and history enthusiasts to get involved.
The trail is being put together to celebrate the rich history of the area and two drop-in events were being held at Middleton library, Long Street, last Saturday and on Wednesday.
Spearheaded by the council, with support from Historic England, the council’s Middleton’s Township Committee and The UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the proposed trail will highlight 36 historic buildings in central Middleton.
These include Alkrington Hall, the Old Grammar School, The Memorial Gardens and St Leonard’s Church, as well as the Methodist Church and Olde Boars Head in Long Street.
The proposed trail also includes buildings designed by the late Middleton-born architect, Edgar Wood, which were recently restored by the council as part of the Historic England supported Townscape Heritage Initiative.
The team is keen to speak to local residents to find out what they think of the sites proposed and the route, as well as hear their stories about Middleton’s history.
Councillor June West, Chair of Middleton Township, said: “Middleton has a rich and proud history, and we want to really bring this out and celebrate this unique area.
“Anyone who is interested should come along to these fantastic events.
“From heritage experts to beginners and people who are just passionate about Middleton, everyone is welcome.”
The creation of the trail is part of the wider masterplan to further regenerate Middleton.
Other proposals in the masterplan include improvements to the highways network and public realm, the development of the area between Eastway and Wood Street, with potential for additional housing and commercial uses, and unlocking key brownfield sites, like Warwick Mill.