All systems go for Wentworth Woodhouse masterplan

Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust, which gathered the groups of more than 1,500 people before drawing up its final plans, launched the blueprint for the restoration and development of the massive manor and its estate before an audience of invited guests on Friday.

Officially unveiled at Downing Street, the plan — titled A New Life — has now been giving its formal first airing on home turf.

As revealed in the Advertiser, the masterplan includes reviving the derelict Camelia House as a cafe and events venue, converting the stables and riding school into a wedding and party space, restoring the main state rooms in the stately home itself and developing holiday lets.

Despite the ambitious plans, trust chief executive Sarah McLeod and chair Julie Kenny said they were determined the benefits spilled across the region, with opportunities for visitors to take a close look at the restorations and even pick up conservation skills, and businesses poised to reap the rewards of increased visitor numbers.

Visitors will be able to view heritage and culture exhibitions, explore more of the house and take “hard hat and hi-viz” tours onto the rooftop as the decaying slates are replaced.

“One of our priorities is to create a place where everybody feels welcome and can engage with this huge project,” said Ms Kenny (pictured below at the launch).

“Wentworth Woodhouse belongs to us all.”