Court Rejects £1 Bid for Iconic Hopwood Hall

An American actor and filmmaker, Hopwood DePree, has lost his legal challenge to acquire the historic Hopwood Hall in Middleton for £1. Mr. DePree asserted ancestral connections to the Grade II-listed mansion and based his claim on a 2017 agreement with Rochdale Council. This agreement purportedly offered him the option to purchase the property after obtaining planning permission for its restoration and redevelopment.

However, High Court judge David Hodge KC ruled that the conditions necessary for transferring ownership had not been satisfied. The court heard that Hopwood Hall is considered among the top 10% of most important listed buildings in England, despite its current condition. DePree's envisioned plans included transforming the hall into a wedding venue, hotel accommodation, and visitor attractions to revitalize the estate.

Rochdale Council decided in 2022 not to transfer ownership and subsequently prevented Mr. DePree and volunteers from accessing the site. The legal proceedings incurred approximately £150,000 in costs, with the council intending to seek payment from Mr. DePree. A council spokesperson expressed satisfaction with the judgment, noting the funds and time spent on the legal battle could have been better allocated to the hall itself.

Since 2017, Rochdale Council and Historic England have collectively invested over £1.6 million in Hopwood Hall. The council affirmed that essential repairs will continue as its long-term future is considered. The spokesperson added that a restored hall would serve the Middleton community, honoring its significant heritage. Mr. DePree expressed deep disappointment but indicated his determination to save the hall, stating he is discussing next steps with his legal team and receiving global support.