Historic Buildings

Hope Mill's Big Birthday

The project will uncover, explore and share the histories of Hope Mill, built 200 years ago in 1824, from its beginnings as one of the first industrial developments on the banks of the Ashton Canal to Hope Mill today: a heritage landmark and vibrant cultural hub at the centre of a neighbourhood being transformed by regeneration. Through a programme of participatory activities, public performances and family-focused events, we will work with our diverse communities - local neighbours, audiences, youth theatre, creative practitioners who work here and others - to uncover and celebrate those aspects of the mill’s history that most resonate with them. We aim to create a communal understanding of the important role Hope Mill has played for local people and its pivotal place at the heart of huge industrial, social and cultural revolutions - preserving this heritage beyond the life of the project as a digital asset.