Gates, Gate Piers And Screen To Bank Hall

The gates, gate piers, and screen to Bank Hall were erected in 1867 to the designs of J Lowe of Manchester. They are constructed primarily of cast iron, supported by ashlar stone piers.

The entrance features a central double gate for vehicle access, alongside a single pedestrian gate to the left. Piers stand approximately 2 meters high, with square moulded bases. Each face of the piers is ornamented with rectangular panels containing decorative stone beading and small flowers in the corners, topped by a moulded cornice and a shallow pyramidal ashlar cap. Shorter, less decorative piers support the curved entrance screen at each end.

The double gates have five vertical bars, a curved diagonal tie, and horizontal bands below. The lower section displays scrolls of thorny stems with seven-petalled flowers in the centre, alongside scrolling decoration above. Ornate, vine-like decoration with one-sided palmette leaves defines the upper corners of the main gate. The pedestrian gate mirrors this style, with crossing curved bars creating a central panel, bearing the cast initials 'HCR' (Henry C Renshaw). The screen, curving in plan and resting on a low stone wall, continues the horizontal banding along its top and lower edge, and retains scrolling decorative detail along the lower edge.

Documents from J. Lowe to the owner in February and July 1867 detail the design process and cost, revealing that option three of three design proposals was ultimately selected and remains in situ. The estimated cost for the work was £11 and 15 shillings.

The gates, piers, and screen are designated at Grade II for their architectural interest as an imposing and distinctive entrance to Bank Hall (also Grade II listed), their historical interest demonstrated by the designer and cost documentation, and their group value with Bank Hall as a functioning entrance.