THIS COUNCIL SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELF !! THAT´S WHY THE UK IS GOING DOWN: USELESS; UNINTERESTED;: UNABLE CIVIL SERVANTS; WHO HAVE NOT ACTED FOR DECADES; BUT TREATING PEOPLE WITH A SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE AND A WILLINGNESS TO PUT HUNDREDS- THOUSANDS OF HOURS OF WORK INTO A PROJECT LIKE CRIMINALS !!
It’s worth compiling a report on the shocking neglect of historic buildings by local government! Rochdale and others have proved themselves to be poor caretakers of key historic buildings! Also have a look into the estate archives, you might find some assistance in your battle from the pen of your ancestors.
@HopwoodXIV @@Russellbristow Mr Bristow has an excellent point, particularly if there were legal choices laid out that would've provided alternate disposition of the estate. If you do not have full estate archives, see if you can get a documents expert to help you find missing papers. Better to have all the extamt information than to be blindsided by further clandestine activities by the council.
@HopwoodXIV Hi Hopwood American here 👋❤️. I've been following your channel and watching the hard work and dedication 👏 you and the community have done for the Estate . I do know King Charles has worked tirelessly to restore many buildings across the UK and beyond to preserve the historical significance. He is a real gem . I think you should be able to schedule a meeting with King Charles as you have committed yourself to the preservation of Hopwood Estates. I feel it's a viable route to schedule a meeting with King Charles. We Yanks 🇺🇲🤠 are tough 💪 . We won't go down without a fight . You have out done yourself and community too to save Hopwood Estates. Don't let some local council try to shut down a part of Historical UK 🇺🇲💪❤ 🇬🇧. It's time to call in the big boss King Charles 🇬🇧❤️💪. God bless you and the lovely community 🙏. Keep fighting 🇬🇧❤️💪🇺🇲
Sadly, I think that it may come down to having to seek a judicial review of Rochdale Council's outrageous actions. I'm not one given to conspiracy theory nutcase nonsense, but this whole thing definitely smells a funny colour. It's almost as though the Council, or at least someone involved with the Council, has had a flea placed in their ear by an interested third party who may have worked out, based on the publicly available information with regards to the extent of the restoration and renovations up to this point, that they may be able to take the project forward at a cost to themselves at what they consider a reasonable price point. Although I will no doubt sound like a complete wack job in saying this, I think it would be very interesting to look at possible relationships between the relevant Council employees, Council Members, & those who have experience in or are interested in turning a property such as Hopwood Hall into a viable proposition; i.e. who has the potential for financial gain. It would also be worth examining the rules on transparency and conflicts of interest for Rochdale Council. e.g. Who can and cannot bid on projects, make offers to purchase, declarations of personal interests, etc. Outside of this, I just cannot figure out what is underpinning the Council's outrageous out of the blue actions.
I find all this just appalling,the way that Hopwood DePree has been treated so disrespectfully and the Volunteers also,of which I am one,and proud to be so.I look at the lovely shots of the Open Day,the image is still in my mind of how cheerful and welcoming the Great Hall looked,the smiling faces,the laughter and I thought to myself,yes,THIS is what the Hall has been crying out for,what the Hall was made for,and now,it really saddens me to imagine the Hall,dark,locked up,cold and unloved.This building is just a possession to the council but to Hopwood and the Volunteers, it's a place we love, it's in our hearts,each and every one of us and this is something the council, college and the RDA do not have.To treat a man like Hopwood,who has breathed life back into this glorious building,in such an underhanded and sly way,is despicable.
The council’s actions are deplorable! Just sickening! So sorry for all those volunteers and all those who were looking forward to seeing the progress continued. 😔
Such a hard video to watch. Rochdale Borough Council are absolutely deplorable in their actions and as for the speech from the leader of the council! Honesty, integrity, truth, cooperation, and commitment sadly lacking. What a way to treat someone willing to give up all he knew to rescue and lead the restoration no one else had the energy, passion or will to do. Any restoration project would be very lucky indeed to be led by someone as dedicated as Hopwood and his volunteers, their future relies on volnteers and Rochdale Council treats them like this! WOW! Just WOW 😣
Just what I was thinking you have the right it your home just l7ke this person says follow the money and that man find out his connection something smells 😮
Hang in there. Keep documenting your progress. Record all proceedings. Someone in the area now wants the property. I've experienced this challenge before.
I assume the college wants it. Maybe they are thinking of taking over restoring it in a way that would specifically make it useful to them as part of their campus?
@ElizabethDMadison IME some VIP in the Community has decided that since preliminary work has been done, it can be restored to a private hotel and tourist attraction. That's how small town opportunists operate. The next phase will be accidental fires or injuries to the volunteers. Then it will escalate. Small town opportunists are usually psychopaths and narcissistic. They don't make moves until the financials are at the point that it makes sense. I hope that everyone begins taking extra precautions immediately.
@@debluetailflyIt belongs to the council...when the De la Salle Brothers moved out the council bought it all,the college and the Hall where it was locked up and left.The college part was sold on but the Hall remained in the hands of the council,where it was abandoned for around 30 years,lead flashing was taken from the roof, flagstones stolen,the building was badly vandalised.This all under Rochdale councils watch.
I’m from Michigan and I’ve watched you from the very beginning. What has amazed me most is how this hall has bright together an entire community. Your grandfather would be proud of all that you’ve accomplished. I can’t imagine what those of you who have poured your heart and soul into Hopwood must feel right now. Now that the Hall is worth something again, they want to take it back? Deplorable. Please, don’t give up this fight!
What you and the Volunteers have done to save Hopwood Hall is amazing. If you can please keep fighting for Hopwood Hall. I hope you will be able to have a Merry Christmas. ❤ Australia
I think the college realised that their expansion plans would be hindered by the hall's progress. RMBC rolling over to the highest bidder as usual. It's sad I attended the college as a mature construction student, and i asked many times why couldn't the college not donate students and time from their courses to help the hall. They have no interest in the hall other than the land it sits on.
I live in Canada and this is also what I believe is at the bottom of this atrocious behaviour of Rochdale Council. I believe it was stated at the town meeting, that the college had built over an access road to the college that had been built by tax papers money and there was a question about whether they were given building permission to do so. Hopwood also said they had been building closer and closer to Hopwood Hall, which makes me feel they were waiting for the Hall to be demolished. If King Charles is about saving British Heritage then this should be brought to his attention. I did sign the petition but am not sure it is recognized as being valid.
If the roof is good, the building will be fine. Just keep planning what to do with the insides, and when the councillors get the lives sorted out you can continue.
I think it's time to actually put a letter into the king he's a big On restoring homes He's hugely involved with that I would send them a letter a column and see if he could help I'd take one phone call from the king my turn around and help you guys out especially the people that actually've been running the hall letting it fall into disappearAnd you gave up your whole life to flatter England to become a citizen just to take over your family's a state home yeah I would definitely call the king
YESSSSS! The King has always been a supporter of historical England and its structures!! Always worth a try!!! Cant hurt, might help!!! Maybe they could give you a Grant towards its Restoration!!! I am PRAYING!!!
I read that letter & there’s no statement on WHY the decision was made. Somewhere, somehow there must be meeting minutes & I would do EVERYTHING to find those minutes. Ask people in the know to help you out. And don’t stop until you have full access to that! If there are none and/or someone, somewhere is benefiting financially from your voluntary - and previously hailed and cherished - work, then you and the other volunteers might have reason to request compensation in lieu of the benefit of access you were supposed to gain as recompense. Good luck! ❤
The law is clear you can demand the minutes - you must demand them and any supporting information they have based their decision on - do it in writing dated - Invoke the Freedom of Information Act - demand a receipt of your request - they have 21 working days to reply in full
What a pity the petty bureaucrats have bah-humbugged your Christmas! If I were a councilor I might be wondering if I will soon be visited by a ghost of Christmas past??? Hopwood, my wish, prayer and hope for you and all the townsfolk and volunteers is that this will only serve to boost your support. May the New Year open the eyes of the current council to the spirited, generous and beautiful liveliness, life and health that is possible through your continued efforts and that of so many others to improve their community. Godspeed!
It’s really outrageous. When so many of these types of estates have been lost forever you would think the restoration would be embraced. I don’t know exactly how the “council” works but it must be actual members of the community who are members. They should be accountable to ALL members of the community for ALL their actions. Neglecting to respond is a dereliction of duty. Maybe it’s time to vote them out if possible?! I am now going to sign the petition. Wishing you and your devoted volunteers a Happy Christmas and New Year.
Something stinks and the odor is coming from the council's chambers. Hopwood maybe it's time you hired a private investigator to find out what these council people are up too.
This must be an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved in saving the hall but try to stay strong and hopefully good will prevail. Power to you all and please don't give up!
This just breaks my heart and makes me furious. If I wrote what I am truly thinking, I would be banned from TH-cam forever. Hopwood, please don't give up on your magnificent ancestral home and keep all of us updated.
Fight on Hopwood! I've been following you from the beginning here in California. This is really heartbreaking. Can you go out there and picket or something to get news coverage?
Hi Hopwood. We think we can help you with the Hall. We sent an email to you a few days ago, so have a look for it. The Hall is more important than anybody realised from a heritage perspective. We'll answer the phone during waking hours every day over winter.
This is just so sad and unnecessary. Please don't give up Hopwood. While this is not the Christmas you envisioned (how could it be?), I do hope you take the time away from the situation to rest up and enjoy yourself. The fight will still be there in the New Year. Take good care. 😇 🎄🎁
Stay with it Hopwood. Keep getting the word out. I the Council is hoping you’ll turn your back and wall away so they be sneaky and do something vile, like rip it down. The Hall has been one of my stories on TH-cam.
Little by little you and the volunteers and professionals have taken this dirty collapsing dangerous building back into something to be proud of. What’s with the council???? This is terrible!!! I was hopeful that after all the pleading that they would back down and let you continue. Stay positive I don’t think the council will be able to do what you have done so far with your family home. Happy holidays.
We are with you Hopwood, and all the extraordinary members of the community! Shame on the Council for their greed and unwillingness! What goes around comes around, and what comes around is an amazing community fighting the good fight! Furthermore, shame on the college and their involvement with the council to deter you and the community in their unknown nefarious plans! Petitioned signed!
The holidays were coming up. Holidays are a wonderful time to raise funds and get your message out. You were supposed to fail but it looks like now you are well on your way to a self supporting events center thet will make jobs and preserve a beautiful piece of history. Fight on!
The older detectives used to say "Follow the money." So look for the money - who benefits from this? Who gets the money? Is there fame involved? What is the role of the College? And while doing that, since the Council claimed Hopwood had no business plan, where is theirs? What business plan have they devised? And again - Who gets the money?
Totally shocking what the Council have done. Council obviously have other plans for the Hall. Probably sold off to the College? Were with you! Ignoring your legal team is shocking too. Keep fighting! I signed the petition at your last video.
Having watched what you have all done in the way of restoration, I'm absolutely shocked and horrified at the actions of the Rochdale Council. I've signed. Keep fighting.
How sorrowful those hollowed halls are Although so close, they are so very far Tender mercy in restoration Feeling betrayed and abandoned, cold and brazen What has conspired? Because, council, we're getting pretty tired Can 2025 see this place come back to life? Or will it be a year of further - and political - strife?
I am so very sorry that these people have decided to act selfishly and not for the good of the community. I will continue to hope and pray that their hearts and minds are changed.
Happy Christmas Hopwood. I still can't believe that this has happened. Hoping and praying for good news for you all in the New Year. Much love, as always xxx
This is a disgrace! I’m hoping you can get support from a higher level or bring in the press and TV broadcasts to call attention to this unjust action! Watching from the States and wishing you the best!
I find it totally unfathomable, what Rochdale council are doing to you and the community. The council have unrealistic time expectations and its so wrong they have shut you out, when have clearly made a difference to Hopwood Hall, and with no clear explanations as to why. Keep fighting Hopwood and best of luck! X 🤞
all the money and work and sacrifice , the council in there care ! left it to ruin absolutely appalling , why are the council so interested now there's something wrong
Who are these people? Did you ever have an inkling as to what they would do to you? Obviously they can see the work put in and the tremendous progress that’s been made! I am seething, which is of no help to you. I’ve signed and donated, but it seems that you are in the thrall of stupidity, ignorance, or greed. What else can we do? I’m in New York but I have been avid supporter of your project almost from its inception.
I’m so sorry this happened I’m gutted for you I grew up in Rochdale but now live in Queensland Australia the conservation of our history is very important to me the petition won’t let me sign because of my email 😣 I’m sure I’m not the only expat who’s watched the hall come back to life and care about it ☹️ just concerned you could miss out on a lot of signatures from people who want to support you
Who closes off access to a historic building like this? The “learned”? I hope the community, Rochdale, Middleton and Manchester step up and demand to be heard.
Hopwood I’m so sad for you, you have my full support, we’ll keep this fight going right beside you. Please try & have a restful Christmas as I think 2025 is going to be a stressful year but we’re all keeping hope in our hearts 💕. As a final sign-off, John McClane style, what do we say to RBC & RDA? YippeeKiYay m*****f*****s 💪🏻❤️💕😘
I want to be rude about Rochdale Borough Council's actions but were I to be this would only be removed. Shake a leg RBC and get into the Christmas spirit. These people are doing something to save this Hall join in and make it work for you all.
Keep up the fight itvonly takes one person toinspire everyone and one to ruin it for everyone because all they can see is what they want. Thanks to you it had life ahain.
I don't think you have to look far beyond the college for many of your answers - They clearly want the status and training opportunities of Hopwood Hall for themselves now that you have done a lot of the donkey work - they would see you as a 3rd party and the volunteers as an unnecessary hindrance that would divert prestige - you have become an obstacle to some ambitions usurper who's is devoid of ethics - You need to be ruthless in tracking down the source and motive - Invoked the freedom of information act and canvas support at the highest level include the media, MP's' as well as The Palace.
Do they plan on tearing it down for the property or donating it to the college to double up on funding/taxation advantages? (edit: as per the Rochdale Council website they will do a feasibility study, while fixing the roof, "with a view" to continue restoration). In my opinion, they don't sound ultra committed to the project but will slap a roof on. I'm not familiar with the UK rules but it's safe to say they don't care about the building itself. Hey Netflix there's a good story here.......
Tbh, it is theft. These people put in a lot of hard work based on expectations from original agreements. Seizing it makes it theft and probably breach of contract. While European laws are generally convoluted and have many extraneous facets, US law, with a few exceptions, is based on English common law brought over by original colonists, so there should be similar laws against this in the UK.
I am so sorry, Hopwood! They erroneously missed a great opportunity to showcase all of the work you and the volunteers have done over the years. They missed an opportunity for you and your teams to get public recognition and the potential for more restoration donations. Don't give up! There is something that they definitely are not saying. Hire an attorney to get to the bottom of it.
This makes no sense. They've been supporting you. The community is supporting you with money and sweat. Why would this suddenly change?! Crazy. Stinky. Without integrity.
The organization that proved itself unable protecting historical listed building should loose all rights to that building. Furthermore, they should be sued for the deliberate damages that occurred due to the lack of care and safety previously, and especially in the future. Sue the board , organization and persons individually for causing deliberate harm. Make them pay for future restoration. Also keep up with social media, on all platforms, with weekly updates. Get the algorithm going, get more subscribers and views, more leverage. They will loose their reputation and after court finishes them, they loose financially.
What an odd statement, custodian , well so far in 30 some years the council have prove their capability…. And last number of years, what has happened?? Don’t think that a moron can not work out what is afoot . 😊 Could it be money, yet again …..
THIS COUNCIL SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELF !! THAT´S WHY THE UK IS GOING DOWN: USELESS; UNINTERESTED;: UNABLE CIVIL SERVANTS; WHO HAVE NOT ACTED FOR DECADES;
BUT TREATING PEOPLE WITH A SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE AND A WILLINGNESS TO PUT HUNDREDS- THOUSANDS OF HOURS OF WORK INTO A PROJECT LIKE CRIMINALS !!
Keep fighting Hopwood old chap! We are all with you!
Thank you Russell
It’s worth compiling a report on the shocking neglect of historic buildings by local government! Rochdale and others have proved themselves to be poor caretakers of key historic buildings! Also have a look into the estate archives, you might find some assistance in your battle from the pen of your ancestors.
@HopwoodXIV @@Russellbristow
Mr Bristow has an excellent point, particularly if there were legal choices laid out that would've provided alternate disposition of the estate.
If you do not have full estate archives, see if you can get a documents expert to help you find missing papers. Better to have all the extamt information than to be blindsided by further clandestine activities by the council.
@HopwoodXIV Hi Hopwood American here 👋❤️. I've been following your channel and watching the hard work and dedication 👏 you and the community have done for the Estate . I do know King Charles has worked tirelessly to restore many buildings across the UK and beyond to preserve the historical significance. He is a real gem . I think you should be able to schedule a meeting with King Charles as you have committed yourself to the preservation of Hopwood Estates. I feel it's a viable route to schedule a meeting with King Charles. We Yanks 🇺🇲🤠 are tough 💪 . We won't go down without a fight . You have out done yourself and community too to save Hopwood Estates. Don't let some local council try to shut down a part of Historical UK 🇺🇲💪❤ 🇬🇧. It's time to call in the big boss King Charles 🇬🇧❤️💪. God bless you and the lovely community 🙏. Keep fighting 🇬🇧❤️💪🇺🇲
Sadly, I think that it may come down to having to seek a judicial review of Rochdale Council's outrageous actions. I'm not one given to conspiracy theory nutcase nonsense, but this whole thing definitely smells a funny colour. It's almost as though the Council, or at least someone involved with the Council, has had a flea placed in their ear by an interested third party who may have worked out, based on the publicly available information with regards to the extent of the restoration and renovations up to this point, that they may be able to take the project forward at a cost to themselves at what they consider a reasonable price point. Although I will no doubt sound like a complete wack job in saying this, I think it would be very interesting to look at possible relationships between the relevant Council employees, Council Members, & those who have experience in or are interested in turning a property such as Hopwood Hall into a viable proposition; i.e. who has the potential for financial gain. It would also be worth examining the rules on transparency and conflicts of interest for Rochdale Council. e.g. Who can and cannot bid on projects, make offers to purchase, declarations of personal interests, etc.
Outside of this, I just cannot figure out what is underpinning the Council's outrageous out of the blue actions.
I find all this just appalling,the way that Hopwood DePree has been treated so disrespectfully and the Volunteers also,of which I am one,and proud to be so.I look at the lovely shots of the Open Day,the image is still in my mind of how cheerful and welcoming the Great Hall looked,the smiling faces,the laughter and I thought to myself,yes,THIS is what the Hall has been crying out for,what the Hall was made for,and now,it really saddens me to imagine the Hall,dark,locked up,cold and unloved.This building is just a possession to the council but to Hopwood and the Volunteers, it's a place we love, it's in our hearts,each and every one of us and this is something the council, college and the RDA do not have.To treat a man like Hopwood,who has breathed life back into this glorious building,in such an underhanded and sly way,is despicable.
It would appear there is something very underhand going on here. Keep fighting Hopwood, you have a lot of people supporting you!
The council’s actions are deplorable! Just sickening! So sorry for all those volunteers and all those who were looking forward to seeing the progress continued. 😔
Such a hard video to watch. Rochdale Borough Council are absolutely deplorable in their actions and as for the speech from the leader of the council! Honesty, integrity, truth, cooperation, and commitment sadly lacking. What a way to treat someone willing to give up all he knew to rescue and lead the restoration no one else had the energy, passion or will to do. Any restoration project would be very lucky indeed to be led by someone as dedicated as Hopwood and his volunteers, their future relies on volnteers and Rochdale Council treats them like this! WOW! Just WOW 😣
This is just horrible. Politicians! Follow the money and you will find answers.
Just what I was thinking you have the right it your home just l7ke this person says follow the money and that man find out his connection something smells 😮
I was thinking the same thing!
Yup! 100%
My thoughts exactly
Corruption is rampant, that entire council is complicit.
This situation makes me ill. Keep the faith and fight Hopwood! You have been wronged!
Hang in there.
Keep documenting your progress.
Record all proceedings.
Someone in the area now wants the property. I've experienced this challenge before.
I assume the college wants it. Maybe they are thinking of taking over restoring it in a way that would specifically make it useful to them as part of their campus?
@ElizabethDMadison IME some VIP in the Community has decided that since preliminary work has been done, it can be restored to a private hotel and tourist attraction. That's how small town opportunists operate.
The next phase will be accidental fires or injuries to the volunteers.
Then it will escalate.
Small town opportunists are usually psychopaths and narcissistic. They don't make moves until the financials are at the point that it makes sense.
I hope that everyone begins taking extra precautions immediately.
@@ElizabethDMadison the college already had it at one time. They let it fall into disrepair.
@@debluetailflyIt belongs to the council...when the De la Salle Brothers moved out the council bought it all,the college and the Hall where it was locked up and left.The college part was sold on but the Hall remained in the hands of the council,where it was abandoned for around 30 years,lead flashing was taken from the roof, flagstones stolen,the building was badly vandalised.This all under Rochdale councils watch.
I’m from Michigan and I’ve watched you from the very beginning. What has amazed me most is how this hall has bright together an entire community. Your grandfather would be proud of all that you’ve accomplished. I can’t imagine what those of you who have poured your heart and soul into Hopwood must feel right now. Now that the Hall is worth something again, they want to take it back? Deplorable. Please, don’t give up this fight!
KEEP PUSHING HOPWOOD STAY FOCUSED AND GOD BLESS YOU AND THE TEAM
Keep fighting! My prayers are with you and your team. Love to you all
I still can't believe this happened. Wishing you success in getting access to continue the great work.
What you and the Volunteers have done to save Hopwood Hall is amazing. If you can please keep fighting for Hopwood Hall.
I hope you will be able to have a Merry Christmas.
❤ Australia
I was thinking maybe I’d get to go to Middleton some day and visit this hall!
I think the college realised that their expansion plans would be hindered by the hall's progress. RMBC rolling over to the highest bidder as usual. It's sad I attended the college as a mature construction student, and i asked many times why couldn't the college not donate students and time from their courses to help the hall. They have no interest in the hall other than the land it sits on.
I live in Canada and this is also what I believe is at the bottom of this atrocious behaviour of Rochdale Council. I believe it was stated at the town meeting, that the college had built over an access road to the college that had been built by tax papers money and there was a question about whether they were given building permission to do so. Hopwood also said they had been building closer and closer to Hopwood Hall, which makes me feel they were waiting for the Hall to be demolished. If King Charles is about saving British Heritage then this should be brought to his attention. I did sign the petition but am not sure it is recognized as being valid.
So sad! keep up the good work Hopwood!
You need to get some good attorneys and take them to court. ✊️
(*barristers)
Local councils - lining their own pockets same as national Government does.... Makes me sick to the heart.
If the roof is good, the building will be fine. Just keep planning what to do with the insides, and when the councillors get the lives sorted out you can continue.
Keep fighting against this injustice 😡
I think it's time to actually put a letter into the king he's a big On restoring homes He's hugely involved with that I would send them a letter a column and see if he could help I'd take one phone call from the king my turn around and help you guys out especially the people that actually've been running the hall letting it fall into disappearAnd you gave up your whole life to flatter England to become a citizen just to take over your family's a state home yeah I would definitely call the king
YESSSSS! The King has always been a supporter of historical England and its structures!! Always worth a try!!! Cant hurt, might help!!! Maybe they could give you a Grant towards its Restoration!!! I am PRAYING!!!
I am sorry for the stress and pressure that the local government is putting on you.
I read that letter & there’s no statement on WHY the decision was made. Somewhere, somehow there must be meeting minutes & I would do EVERYTHING to find those minutes. Ask people in the know to help you out. And don’t stop until you have full access to that! If there are none and/or someone, somewhere is benefiting financially from your voluntary - and previously hailed and cherished - work, then you and the other volunteers might have reason to request compensation in lieu of the benefit of access you were supposed to gain as recompense.
Good luck! ❤
The law is clear you can demand the minutes - you must demand them and any supporting information they have based their decision on - do it in writing dated - Invoke the Freedom of Information Act - demand a receipt of your request - they have 21 working days to reply in full
What a pity the petty bureaucrats have bah-humbugged your Christmas! If I were a councilor I might be wondering if I will soon be visited by a ghost of Christmas past??? Hopwood, my wish, prayer and hope for you and all the townsfolk and volunteers is that this will only serve to boost your support. May the New Year open the eyes of the current council to the spirited, generous and beautiful liveliness, life and health that is possible through your continued efforts and that of so many others to improve their community. Godspeed!
A complete disgrace. Someone on the council side wants to monetize all your hard work. Shame on them.
Development agency says it all.
It’s really outrageous. When so many of these types of estates have been lost forever you would think the restoration would be embraced. I don’t know exactly how the “council” works but it must be actual members of the community who are members. They should be accountable to ALL members of the community for ALL their actions. Neglecting to respond is a dereliction of duty. Maybe it’s time to vote them out if possible?! I am now going to sign the petition. Wishing you and your devoted volunteers a Happy Christmas and New Year.
I'm sorry that you've temporarily been barred from which seems your life's mission, to bring life back into that majestic building.
Something stinks and the odor is coming from the council's chambers. Hopwood maybe it's time you hired a private investigator to find out what these council people are up too.
This must be an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved in saving the hall but try to stay strong and hopefully good will prevail. Power to you all and please don't give up!
This just breaks my heart and makes me furious. If I wrote what I am truly thinking, I would be banned from TH-cam forever. Hopwood, please don't give up on your magnificent ancestral home and keep all of us updated.
I'd be banned also 👍😊
The Rochdale council is criminally stupid. Keep up the good fight.
Fight on Hopwood! I've been following you from the beginning here in California. This is really heartbreaking. Can you go out there and picket or something to get news coverage?
Hi Hopwood. We think we can help you with the Hall. We sent an email to you a few days ago, so have a look for it. The Hall is more important than anybody realised from a heritage perspective.
We'll answer the phone during waking hours every day over winter.
I live in America but please tell me how I might be able to help you from here because this is worth fighting for!
Share, share, share the post.
Signatures on the petition will help and publicity.....
This is just so sad and unnecessary. Please don't give up Hopwood. While this is not the Christmas you envisioned (how could it be?), I do hope you take the time away from the situation to rest up and enjoy yourself. The fight will still be there in the New Year. Take good care. 😇 🎄🎁
Stay with it Hopwood. Keep getting the word out. I the Council is hoping you’ll turn your back and wall away so they be sneaky and do something vile, like rip it down. The Hall has been one of my stories on TH-cam.
I still cannot believe this. Something is very fishy!
There must be money in it for them somewhere.
Disgusting.
Agree
@@mynizkatz7465 Agree too
Someone sees $ , that’s usually the answer.
Little by little you and the volunteers and professionals have taken this dirty collapsing dangerous building back into something to be proud of. What’s with the council???? This is terrible!!! I was hopeful that after all the pleading that they would back down and let you continue. Stay positive I don’t think the council will be able to do what you have done so far with your family home. Happy holidays.
I signed keep posting updates . We stand behind you !
We are with you Hopwood, and all the extraordinary members of the community! Shame on the Council for their greed and unwillingness! What goes around comes around, and what comes around is an amazing community fighting the good fight! Furthermore, shame on the college and their involvement with the council to deter you and the community in their unknown nefarious plans! Petitioned signed!
The holidays were coming up. Holidays are a wonderful time to raise funds and get your message out. You were supposed to fail but it looks like now you are well on your way to a self supporting events center thet will make jobs and preserve a beautiful piece of history. Fight on!
Signed.
The older detectives used to say "Follow the money." So look for the money - who benefits from this? Who gets the money? Is there fame involved? What is the role of the College? And while doing that, since the Council claimed Hopwood had no business plan, where is theirs? What business plan have they devised? And again - Who gets the money?
Totally shocking what the Council have done. Council obviously have other plans for the Hall. Probably sold off to the College? Were with you! Ignoring your legal team is shocking too. Keep fighting! I signed the petition at your last video.
So sad they did that. Keep the faith everyone stick together and prayfully things will work out.
Having watched what you have all done in the way of restoration, I'm absolutely shocked and horrified at the actions of the Rochdale Council. I've signed. Keep fighting.
Hopwood please keep fighting ❤
I am horrified that this has happened. I hope and support you to have that stupid decision overturned.
Sad good luck hopwood
How sorrowful those hollowed halls are
Although so close, they are so very far
Tender mercy in restoration
Feeling betrayed and abandoned, cold and brazen
What has conspired?
Because, council, we're getting pretty tired
Can 2025 see this place come back to life?
Or will it be a year of further - and political - strife?
Pray.
I am so very sorry that these people have decided to act selfishly and not for the good of the community. I will continue to hope and pray that their hearts and minds are changed.
Happy Christmas Hopwood. I still can't believe that this has happened. Hoping and praying for good news for you all in the New Year. Much love, as always xxx
The Truth Prevails and Truth Sets One And All Free!
Please keep fighting - you and your volunteers have been treated appallingly.
Light and Love Always Wins. Visualise your desired wonderful finale🎉❤.
I'm so sorry to hear about this. I really don't know what Rochdale Council is playing at.
This is a disgrace! I’m hoping you can get support from a higher level or bring in the press and TV broadcasts to call attention to this unjust action! Watching from the States and wishing you the best!
I find it totally unfathomable, what Rochdale council are doing to you and the community. The council have unrealistic time expectations and its so wrong they have shut you out, when have clearly made a difference to Hopwood Hall, and with no clear explanations as to why. Keep fighting Hopwood and best of luck! X 🤞
all the money and work and sacrifice , the council in there care ! left it to ruin absolutely appalling , why are the council so interested now there's something wrong
Who are these people? Did you ever have an inkling as to what they would do to you? Obviously they can see the work put in and the tremendous progress that’s been made! I am seething, which is of no help to you. I’ve signed and donated, but it seems that you are in the thrall of stupidity, ignorance, or greed. What else can we do? I’m in New York but I have been avid supporter of your project almost from its inception.
I couldn't have said it better! I too, live in NY (upstate) and have signed and donated what I could. This is just so shocking!
Doesn’t even make sense what they’re doing to you. It’s disgusting.
take it to a higher court ASAP! that is SUPER suspicious from the council
I’m so sorry this happened I’m gutted for you I grew up in Rochdale but now live in Queensland Australia the conservation of our history is very important to me the petition won’t let me sign because of my email 😣 I’m sure I’m not the only expat who’s watched the hall come back to life and care about it ☹️ just concerned you could miss out on a lot of signatures from people who want to support you
what is the council's angle? what do they thibk they can do?
Who closes off access to a historic building like this? The “learned”? I hope the community, Rochdale, Middleton and Manchester step up and demand to be heard.
Hopwood I’m so sad for you, you have my full support, we’ll keep this fight going right beside you. Please try & have a restful Christmas as I think 2025 is going to be a stressful year but we’re all keeping hope in our hearts 💕. As a final sign-off, John McClane style, what do we say to RBC & RDA? YippeeKiYay m*****f*****s 💪🏻❤️💕😘
Ghastly council... have they no shame?
Rochdale Council... Say no more..
😢. Sad.
This is breaking my heart to see all of your hard work being "slapped down". I feel like something fishy is going on behind the scenes of the council!
Who abandoned the house in the first place and expected the local ratepayers would pick up the bill?
The council does not want the public to see what they have caused to the estate through the years of neglect.
Keep fighting. If I were a British citizen I would sign immediately. Can US citizens help with monetary assistance?
I want to be rude about Rochdale Borough Council's actions but were I to be this would only be removed. Shake a leg RBC and get into the Christmas spirit. These people are doing something to save this Hall join in and make it work for you all.
Keep up the fight itvonly takes one person toinspire everyone and one to ruin it for everyone because all they can see is what they want.
Thanks to you it had life ahain.
The Council and College are all in cahoots. What a bunch of Ba-humbugs!
I don't think you have to look far beyond the college for many of your answers - They clearly want the status and training opportunities of Hopwood Hall for themselves now that you have done a lot of the donkey work - they would see you as a 3rd party and the volunteers as an unnecessary hindrance that would divert prestige - you have become an obstacle to some ambitions usurper who's is devoid of ethics - You need to be ruthless in tracking down the source and motive - Invoked the freedom of information act and canvas support at the highest level include the media, MP's' as well as The Palace.
This is so sad. Sounds like a bunch Scrooges that don't have Christmas in their hearts. 😢
This could be an asset to the borough of Rochdale like Ordsall Hall is to Salford.
sad.
This is all about Money! Shame on the council!
time to bring hollywood to rochdale and make it a movie dont you think as with the current story you can fill atleast 3 hours
My guess is that some is expecting to make a lot of money demolishing the house and selling the land at an extortionate price.
What .? You are a legal heir of the Estate and they lock you out of your Property ? Shocking 😢
Do they plan on tearing it down for the property or donating it to the college to double up on funding/taxation advantages? (edit: as per the Rochdale Council website they will do a feasibility study, while fixing the roof, "with a view" to continue restoration). In my opinion, they don't sound ultra committed to the project but will slap a roof on. I'm not familiar with the UK rules but it's safe to say they don't care about the building itself. Hey Netflix there's a good story here.......
Tbh, it is theft. These people put in a lot of hard work based on expectations from original agreements. Seizing it makes it theft and probably breach of contract.
While European laws are generally convoluted and have many extraneous facets, US law, with a few exceptions, is based on English common law brought over by original colonists, so there should be similar laws against this in the UK.
They can’t tear it down as it is a Grade 2 star listed building, so protected for its historical importance.
@@nelltaylor8171 thank you for clarifying, good to know.
What a disgrace. After all the work you have all out in. It sickens me
I am so sorry, Hopwood! They erroneously missed a great opportunity to showcase all of the work you and the volunteers have done over the years. They missed an opportunity for you and your teams to get public recognition and the potential for more restoration donations. Don't give up! There is something that they definitely are not saying. Hire an attorney to get to the bottom of it.
signed
This makes no sense. They've been supporting you. The community is supporting you with money and sweat. Why would this suddenly change?! Crazy. Stinky. Without integrity.
The organization that proved itself unable protecting historical listed building should loose all rights to that building. Furthermore, they should be sued for the deliberate damages that occurred due to the lack of care and safety previously, and especially in the future. Sue the board , organization and persons individually for causing deliberate harm. Make them pay for future restoration. Also keep up with social media, on all platforms, with weekly updates. Get the algorithm going, get more subscribers and views, more leverage. They will loose their reputation and after court finishes them, they loose financially.
The king is the answer to this dilemma
Well they could get voted out
🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
What an odd statement, custodian , well so far in 30 some years the council have prove their capability….
And last number of years, what has happened??
Don’t think that a moron can not work out what is afoot . 😊
Could it be money, yet again …..
Do members of the council (Neil Emmott?) have amnesia? Alzheimers? Just greed? Shortsightedness? All of the above? This is so sick. Gross.
They want the future grant money and financial control for themselves.