Member Article

Bradford developers praised for “tremendous” restoration of historic 17th century hall

Leading Bradford developers Frank Marshall Estates have been applauded for the stunning restoration of one of the finest 17th century buildings in the city.

The company is moving its headquarters this summer to the newly-restored Grade II-listed New Hall, which fronts Rooley Lane and was previously the clubhouse of West Bowling Golf Club.

Frank Marshall Estates is run by Edward and Jimmy Marshall and is a well-established real estate company with significant commercial assets in Yorkshire. It was previously based at the nearby Link 606 Office Park.

The building, which was built in 1672, has been comprehensively refurbished and is now split into two wings, The East Wing and the West Wing, allowing another occupier 2,075 sq ft of quality office space.

Jon Ackroyd, Senior Conservation and Design Officer at Bradford Metropolitan Borough Council, commented: “During its use as a golf clubhouse, the Hall sustained various unsympathetic alterations, some of which became evident when the early 20th century extension was removed from the north side of the building.

“The impact of new openings in the original stonework and damage to masonry details became evident. The building also suffered during vacancy after the golf club closed, with roof leaks threatening the magnificent timber roof structure.

“Frank Marshall Estates have demonstrated a level of dedication which the building badly needed and deserved. Its future was uncertain after several years standing empty and vulnerable to theft. The renovated building is a tribute to the ability of KPP Architects to sympathetically introduce modern contemporary features and finishes into this historic building.

“The treatment of new openings, the new staircases and the crisp modern interiors are evidence of this. The commitment of the owners to restoring the building, including reinstating lost decorative masonry details to chimneys, windows, verge finials and string courses and through installing the highest quality of sympathetic windows is to be applauded.

“They now have a building which is a tremendous advert for their business and something to be immensely proud of. The building has been revitalised demonstrating the benefit of a positive working relationship between owners, architects and local authority heritage officers. New Hall now has a secure future, illustrating the way old buildings can accommodate the best of modern facilities and allowing it to thrive and be appreciated long into the future,” he added.

Edward Marshall commented: “We really appreciate these kind words. New Hall is a tremendous building, which had fallen on hard times, and we are proud that it is our new home. We invested in excess of £500,000 in its regeneration and it is now a stunning mixture of the old and the new. It is has been restored to the highest of standards.

“We look forward to sharing New Hall with a new occupier. There is 2,075 sq ft of cutting edge office space with a wonderful historical ambience, ready to lease in June. Rents are in the region of £15 per sq ft.”

Jimmy Marshall added: “We are very proud of our Bradford heritage and ensured that the contractors and suppliers for this prestigious project are from the Bradford region. A special mention has to be made to our contract manager Chris Balme for his dedication and skill on the project. “

New Hall is a fine example of a West Riding yeoman’s house. Dating from the Restoration era of the late 17th century, it is also a fairly late example of this distinctive style of vernacular architecture which was being replaced by emerging Classical influences.

For further information, please contact Robert Beaumont on 01423 323139 or 07710 127713

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Robert Beaumont .