Landmark listed glasshouse reopens after restoration

The historic listed Alexandra Conservatory in Alexandra Park had been closed for an extensive £460,000 refurbishment

One of the borough’s most recognisable buildings is back open to the public for the first time in two-and-a-half years.

The historic listed Alexandra Conservatory in the Grade II* Alexandra Park had been closed for an extensive £460,000 refurbishment.

This has included significant repairs to the timber structure and weathervanes, renewal of areas of roof glazing which included curved glass panels at high level in the centre pavilion, replacement of rainwater goods, and a complete overhaul of the original Messenger window opening mechanisms.

Now work has finished on the 116-year-old building and it is open seven days a week for visitors to enjoy once again.

Once inside you’ll be able to look at the many plants and flowers our environment team are growing on site.

Over the years many of the plants and flowers that brighten up our roads, streets, highways and parks have been grown in the conservatory.

Originally built in 1907 at a cost of £1,500 - including plants - the Conservatory was officially opened for the first time on Tuesday, July 2 that year, by Cllr J Ashworth, Chairman of the Parks and Cemeteries committee and the Mayor, Dr Gourley.

Built at a time when a large proportion of people in Oldham did not have access to green space, the conservatory was one of the park’s principal attractions which also enabled the council to grow many exotic plants that wouldn’t normally be seen in the borough.

Constructed entirely from wood and glass the structure has always been vulnerable to the elements and it has been renovated several times over the last 100 years.

Councillor Chris Goodwin, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Generations of Oldhamers have visited the conservatory over the years so it’s great that we’ve been able to open the doors once again.

“With summer round the corner and Love Parks Week next month it’s come at just the right time.

“Alexandra Park is already our most popular greenspace with people of all ages thanks to the great facilities on offer and the conservatory is now yet another good reason to come along and visit.”

The Messenger Conservatory is open Monday to Thursday from 8am to 3.30pm and Friday to Sunday from 8am to 4pm.

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