Thanks so much for your support. Please sign this petition to help: chng.it/XX8JVtJgw5 Editorial Note: Due to a privacy complaint, we edited out the full name of an individual between the time codes 54:59 & 56:53
Raise awareness to King Charles. He is a champion of restoration & rehabilitation of important historical estates; including one several years ago that was his personal project and blueprint for successful works such as yours at Hopwood Hall. I think he would be very supportive of the community and continuation of the well-planned and executed project. 🕊️
Something smells very very rotten! So the contract Hopwood has been working under is not legally binding? I'm shocked and very disappointed by this turn of events. Do not give up!!!!! - A Hopwood from Texas, USA
I've sent a long email of complaint to Rochdale council. I'd encourage everybody to do the same. Hopwood - don't give up! You and the team have worked wonders on the hall, rescuing it from the appalling state it was allowed to fall into by - Rochdale Council - the very same that now wants to take it from you!! You couldn't make it up. Go to the press. Go to your MP. Get on the news - local and national. Start a petition. Recruit some celebrities. Organise a protest. Get a lawyer to do some digging into who's behind the decision, and check that everything's kosher. I feel we're entering an era when more and more people are increasingly ready to call out and confront over-reaching 'authorities'. Use the zeitgeist! Remind the grandees of Rochdale council that they can very easily be booted-out at the next local government election. I wish you all the best ❤
Send the council a bill for all the volunteer work that has been done... The Council has been derelict in its responsibility to be a custodian of the hall..
Absolutely. Send them a bill through your lawyer for absolutely everything including every minute of everyone’s labor at going contractors rates, even though they did volunteer. Then give them a payable in full on demand and if they don’t go to court to seize the property and grounds in full in lieu of payment.
It is utterly shameful that the council is trying to do this. This is one channel on YT that gave me hope in humanity. I know it helps the volunteers mental health, and it helps us that watch too! The progress, passion and learning through the restoration is inspiring and I am cheering for you to win this fight from the States.
Couldnt have said it better myself. His channel is inspirational to so many of us - You’ve got this Hopwood! And we’re right behind you along the way! ❤
Hopwood, you need to contact the King and Prince of Whales through the Palace and get His Majesty involved as he himself has been behind restoration and community revitalization of such projects like this. Get the BBC in on this and get with TalkTV - Piers Morgan and stand up against Council corruption.
The Council’s behavior is outrageous. You and especially the immediate community as well as lots of others have been so supportive in the restoration of Hopwood. What a wonderful group of people. Good luck to you all.
They cannot seize the hall! You and your team of contractors and volunteers have done an amazing job restoring your lovely ancestral home- hang in there!!
This made me weep. We are in an identical situation in our small Irish rural community. Almost 4 years of working 4 days a week, our small volunteer group worked hard to save a very unique derelict Victorian Spa Complex only to be locked out. Our story is absolutely identical and your story gives me inspiration to continue the fight.
I am so sorry to hear that the group of volunteers you are a part of have been stopped from continuing on with your work to save a piece of your local communities history. It is so disheartening to hear of councils ignoring the wishes of their local communities. I do so hope you feel encouraged to not give up and to keep your eyes on the goal you all have for the future of the spa complex.
Fight Hopwood, fight. We've suffered at the hands of government administrators here in the States and nobody dreamed the public would have a voice. I pray for you and the wonderful people who are behind the rebirth of Hopwood Hall.
@@HopwoodXIVI'm shocked. Sad about what happened. Be united and don't give up, we need to publicize what the Rockell council did. I'm sorry, but I think that these people who closed the doors to such wonderful work, like what has been done, can only be because they have some type of financial interest - My assumption, because there are more people wanting to destroy, let the that people wanting to RESTORE - (you can't think of anything else, since the restorations are going very well). Did the Rockell council expect that the restoration would not be as successful as it has been? Did the Rockell council want everything to collapse and finally demolish it and then come real estate speculation? The work of this young North American, with his group of volunteers "is against what the university wants". If the university wanted restoration, it should not have left the building in this precarious condition for 30 years. I wish from the bottom of my heart that the community of Middleton together with the young North American people have their doors open and get rid of these people from the Rockell Council who are closing the gates of the building for you.
OMG... Hopwood, I'm in total shock at this news! What the hell? With the awesome amounts of work that have been done on Hopwood Hall so far, the help of so many volunteers, and your RUclips documentation of the work that is going on, how the hell can the council say there, "is no plan," for the restoration? That's insane! Please, please, hire a really good attorney to fight this. Might not hurt to write to King Charles too. He's a huge advocate for restoring old houses, community involvement, etc. Also, get the national media to do stories about it all over England, so there will be more backlash against the council. I live in America, and even I'm outraged by this development. Told my husband and he got upset too. It's really messed up that they are trying to do this. It's just wrong, and they must be stopped. I feel like crying, because I'm so angry. I hate people with bad motives....and then try to hide their actions. If you have an online petition that we can sign, please let us know. My husband and I will sign. I have a few friends that will sign too. We all appreciate the restoration of ancient British estates. Here's hoping you win this battle!!
I consider myself pretty level headed and unemotional. But I found myself in tears as I watched this, thinking about the disrespect the council has shown yourself, the volunteers who obviously care so much about the estate, and the experts that have been helping you all along this journey of restoration. So many people putting their time and effort into saving the hall and they can't even make the meeting records public. It's shameful.
I've seen this sort of thing before with local counsil's and it's to do with the law of undisturbed possession. Closer to home there was a piece of open green land. The local resident's association put in a request to the local council to use the site for children's events during the Summer months. The reply from the council was that there was no registered owner of the land and therefore they could not grant the request. It not being the council's remit The council took it upon themselves to mow the green and it was enjoyed by many in the community. it was also an asset to the neighbourhood community. However, after 20years or so a huge FOR SALE sign appeared on the land and the council sold it for development. Under the law of undisturbed possession, if you have occupied the land, built a fence around it or cultivated the land for not less than 12 years without anyone objecting, the land becomes yours. Mowing the grass by the council constitutes cultivation, something that was not lost on them and that's why they did it. Essentially to eventually claim the land after the 12 years was up. Another 5 years of the Hopwood rescue project will ensure the rightful possession to the volunteers and I suspect that's the reason the council have barred entry to the site. My guess is that Hopwood hall was originally gifted to the community of Rochdale, and not to Rochdale council, which although it might assume governance, but in reallity has no right of ownership. This needs looking into further.
@ksemery They could restore the hall and include it in the campus. It could because lecture halls a museum and library etc etc. Many Universities and colleges in Europe are housed in centuries old buildings. They could have a school of Historical Architecture and Decoration like they have in Italy.
Absolutely shocking. I really hope this decision can be reviewed. Your name is LITERALLY written all over this project. How can a council that allowed it to rot in the first place be trusted with the Hall ever again? Shocking.
Hopwood - you have brought so much light, life, opportunity, creativity and a real sense of community to Rochdale. You have so much support and we all share your vision of Hopwood Hall. ❤
Thank you Hopwood for sharing this for those of us who couldn’t be there ❤️ I was extremely moved by all the testimonies from your lovely volunteers, but also found their resilience inspirational. I, like you all, am dumbfounded by RBC’s mean-spirited decisions but with this degree of public support I look forward to the day when they have to turn tail and back down, what a victory that will be. In the meantime, please look after your mental health Hopwood, I can only imagine the stress & anxiety this is causing you. Sending you support & strength 💪🏻❤️👏🏻🥰
Dear council, to stop something that can become such an incredible place to not only enjoy for years to come, but to learn so many different trades. It’s something that I haven’t seen in any other renovation project. Hundreds of people learning, building relationships, making life long friends. It’s outstanding for the community to have such a huge opportunity as this. There should be no question in your mind that this a project that must continue with the help of the wonderful volunteers and of course Hopwood Dupree. His passion and dedication is how it has come this far. We all pray that you work together to make this Hall the place that it is on the road to be and make millions of people over joyed.
As a Hopwood descendant myself, this is very upsetting. I’ve been watching this channel, SO excited to see this restoration unfold on a family hall I have heard about my whole life but have never been able to see (I’m in the US). I’m praying this can be resolved quickly, and you can continue the restoration of our family home!!
Oh, Hopwood! This news turns my stomach. I pray that you will triumph over this aggressive overtake and that your work will not have been done in vain. I've looked forward to every video you've posted, and this one breaks my heart. Helen from Tennessee, USA.
Surely the council is aware they are there for the public. They live in this very area where they will have to face the volunteers & supporters of Hopwood! I wonder if they never really thought this place would look as good as it does and now they see more value in offering it to ‘someone else’. Thousands around the world are watching their terrible behaviour, fight on!
Michigan and California we stand by him continuing to fix the hall and allow them to continue it was in disrepair now it's been coming back they have done more to save it than anyone had in years.
I’m in Australia, I am with you all! Rochdale council needs to listen to its community, it needs to support these people ….as a community make them listen! Keep strong, keep supporting each other…you got this! 😉👍
It is genuinely heartbreaking to hear Hopwood and our volunteers have to make such impassioned and heartfelt speeches. This decision needs to be reversed and they all need to be back in the Hall where they belong. Such great progress has been made despite all the obstacles that have been put in their way. Rochdale Borough Council and Hopwood Hall College should hang their heads in shame; for establishments that claim to both represent and educate our future generations you are showing a very poor example here. Integrity, kindness and respect really should be at the fore in both of these organisations. To Hopwood, who does not deserve to have been treated this way, and the MOST amazing volunteers, WE WILL GET THERE! Please sign the petition, it means such a lot to everyone involved to restore this most important heritage property. #SaveHopwoodHall
All around the world ...especially in America ... people fell in love with the story and Hopwoods involvement and watched as huge progress was made , I cant imagine why Rochdale Council would renege on the deal and look so foolish .
I was devastated to hear of your plight with the neighbouring college and the council. I will pray for you. I really wish all the best for your endeavours to continue restoring your ancestral home. May god give you strength ❤
I am shocked that they would do this to you and your magnificent community !!! You MUST fight this !!! I am praying for your success in this endeavor . Take it to the news country wide !!! Show them the great things you guys have accomplished !!! 💖💖💖
I feel completely outraged that the council firstly let it get into this state and now want to step in to stop the amazing work you are all doing to save this hall. Hope that you are able to overturn this decision. Sending love from South Australia 🇦🇺 ❤️
I was missing your optimistic & proactive updates while working within limited budgets. This is shocking to hear. You all captured the hearts, admiration and best wishes of so many around the world with what you’re achieving for preserving this important historic building. For so many to volunteer and give up so much of their lives is amazing. For Hopwood to give up his life & livelihood in America to help save this building has been incredible to watch. I’m gutted, as this community is so lucky to have Hopwood and these volunteers on board. Without him, the building, funding and his promoting the project, the grant wouldn’t be there. Having to be reactive to roadblocks, takes so much longer as Hopwood’s proactive approach. Ps. Hopwood’s mum was as delightful as her son.
This is an absolute disgrace, I have watched every episode of this restoration, since the channel began, I lived in Scandinavia for years during this restoration and one of my first thoughts since returning to the UK was eagerly awaiting public access, so we can come for tours and help support Hopwood and the volunteers with the amazing work they do. This building and the history mean so much more than just for the people of Middleton, just look at the comments to see how many people from around the world are captivated and “involved” in saving Hopwood Hall. I’ve signed the petition and shared it. I hope we can make a difference. Don’t give up Hopwood and all the volunteers. x
You have put in so much work, time, blood, sweat and tears into this project, Hopwood. Your vision for the hall is inspiring and it will create such a lovely space for the community to gather and learn about the history of the Hall. I really hope the council can review this decision and take the time to understand the huge impact of you, and your amazing volunteers, have made to the hall! Hopwood, you have dedicated your life to this derelict building with a vision of making something incredibly special and important for generations to come!
I’m outraged by this vicious attack by an unreasonable town council that can’t look beyond their own selfish greed to see the greater good of restoring a historic building which has been going on for years now.
There are so many ways to provide employment and beneficial usage for the community of this heritage estate, let alone it being of educational and historic benefit to all. Whoever is benefiting from this decision certainly does not have the community in mind. I am so sorry Hopwood that you are dealing with this situation, and I feel bad for all the workers who put all this effort into it.
WTF?!!!! What can we do??? I’ve been following this magnificent project for several years. Had it been possible, I would have joined the volunteers. I share your shock and astonishment.
Wow...... this is beyond me and am broken watching this. Rochdale Council you should be ashamed. Hopwood fight this to the bitter end. The support you have from the community is strong as well as your vision. There is something seriously wrong going on.
Signed and shared. Without the vision, passion and desire Hopwood DP has shown, alongside the hardwork, comittment, dedication and love of the amazing volunteers, the hall would long since be beyond repair. I have seen first hand the work and progress achieved and it is heart warming to see the transformation. They have done a brilliant job thus far #FOHHE🙏 For Rochdale Council to inflict these sanctions is totally abhorrant.They need to take a long hard look at the recent turn of events, and reverse this decision very soon before you do more harm than good .This will come back to haunt you. Shame on you RMBC. Game on Hopwood !! You have the backing of the local community and we will fight to reverse this decision. God bless. Bev and Michael Peacock.
I just signed the petition. My grandparents (I think) leased and then bought their farm and land from the Hopwood Family Estate in the 1930's. I have been following this channel and read Mr. De Pree's book last year. I hope the relationship with the council can be rebuilt through dialogue and transparency, as so much progress has been made and this project is bringing together many generations of people living in the area to care for and nurture the hall back to life. The obstacles do not seem insurmountable. Wishing Mr. DePree and the team the best of luck.
I am so sorry to hear of this injustice! You poured your heart and soul into preserving your ancestral family home! You will persevier over this newest obstacle.
@@HopwoodXIVI think that the lady who oversees the foundation and/or funding is missing an opportunity for the college and its students to get involved in the restoration of a historic building. The opportunities for them to hold amazing college fundraising, events and more in that building once it is finished or as main halls are completed. I feel that she/they are being unreasonable. They should be working with you and not against you. To help you overcome obstacles and not to create them.
I'm shocked and heartbroken. Been following this story with interest for a while, you have all achieved so much. I was looking forward to visiting one day.
My heart aches for you all with this crushing news of the Rochdale Council & School blocking the magnificent work everyone has done thus far to bring back Hopwood Hall to life. I am watching from Australia where many of our buildings are just a blink of history compared to the UK so with this much rich heritage in Britain one would think that especially with the upcoming massive generous grant that the Council would be all but willing to support tenfold the continuing work and dedication to the restoring of this rich beautiful building. I cannot fathom the narrowminded blindness of the so call powerheads at the helm what their agenda really is .... I only hope that you all give them a bloody shake n a half to rattle their noggins to bring them to their sense. I thank everyone for their dedication - watching the vlogs and seeing the luv you all have for the building is beautiful to see and as I can only watch and live through you as you have been bringing the Hall back to life has been brilliant to watch. Thank you again and will have my toes, legs, arms & eyes crossed for the best outcome and the fight ahead with the numpties at the council & school cheers Debz from Oz
I been here since practically the beginning of your saga. I am truly sorry you and everyone who is working with you are going through this. What are they thinking, grand theft? My respect for England will certainly wane if so. I would hope some night in shining armor would come to the rescue..... Keep a stiff upper lip old chap, we stand with you and may god bless. Next election, vote them out. Whatever it takes.
Love the support you all have given! There has been so much work put into Hopwood Hall, it’s crazy that they are taking that away ….. praying it will not proceed! Another supporter from Texas👍
I am writing from Canada and I can't believe this is actually happening! I have watched the heart and soul of the community and Hopwood pour out to restore this building that was neglected by Council and its members. It is heartbreaking and really tragic. What is their motive?
I have watched every video on your channel, deeply moved by your passion for this building. You relocated across continents, embraced your identity as a proud UK citizen, and welcomed countless volunteers who shared your vision for revitalizing this once-neglected space. Together, you inspired us all to believe in the potential of this place as a future gathering spot. This property holds profound significance for you-it's your ancestral home. I truly hope that justice will prevail, allowing this challenging chapter to become just a small wrinkle in the rich history of the building. Petition signed!
Given how seriously Great Britain takes its cultural heritage, this council should have been admonished or worse by the national government during all the years of willful neglect of Hopwood Hall. They have proven they have no intention, will, plan or financial interest in even basic preservation of cultural heritage. Shame on them. This is a waste of time and resources, and I certainly hope a resolution is found quickly.
Have been watching your channel of Hopwood Hall restoration progress for several years. Today I watched the wider community meeting video and I'm appalled at the bureaucratic interferences, back tracking, side stepping, blocking, shenanigans by Rochdale Council. Seems all was running smoothly til that woman Emma Burkitt, a supposed 'consultant' was brought on board. The fact SHE didn't support nor agree with Hopwood nor the H.H. charity and wished to divert the £250K grant to a independent Agency, speaks volume's! I sincerely hope your legal team hold sway to help this project be restored to Hopwood & his valuable volunteers to make this project the success it deserves to be WITHOUT bureaucratic interference. Watching with great interest and support from New Zealand 🇳🇿 PS My ancestors 3 generations back emigrated to NZ on a sailing ship as pioneers from Portsmouth 💙🌏💙
Unreal, having watched your earlier videos and the progress and support of the community I am staggered the arrogance of the Rochdale council. They must be forced to publish the minutes of the meeting that triggered this ridiculous decision. Also the College need to account for their actions and their duplicity in this matter. Petition signed. Andy UK
I’m gobsmacked. I have watched how you and the volunteers are gradually bringing life to a neglected but beautiful old grand lady. Watching the gardens come to life. I see the passion you and your team have for the hall. You and your team have done more for the hall than the council who left to go rack and ruin.
This is horrible to hear, hope you can find a way to challenge the council and get back to restoring the hall. There’s definitely something dodgy going on with the council acting so underhandedly and sneaky! As an Oldhamer it’s been great to watch your journey of working and caring for Hopwood Hall. Off to sign and share the petition now
This is such horrible news! I live in the USA and found your channel several months ago. Your story about you and Hopwood Hall has been so uplifting. History is so important. I can't believe that the city council doesn't see how important saving Hopwood Hall is for the whole town and England. I pray their hearts are softened and grow to love Hopwood Hall, the city, and its people.
Shocking story. If it were the U. S. I would assume that money is at the heart of the suddenness and cruelty of the move. Someone stands to make a killing on either selling or razing the Hall. The college maybe?
Good luck. It's disgraceful that most of the councilors seem to run from this type of transparency that Hopwood and the volunteers exhibit so well. Not only was the decision itself to lock out the people actually saving the hall, obviously incorrect, the sly, underhand way it was done was horribly deceitful, devious and just plain sneaky. Given that RMBC are responsible completely for the mess that the volunteers have been correcting, they just need to hide their heads in shame, stay out of the way and let those who know what they are doing get on with the work. Thank you, Hopwood and the army of volunteers, for everything you have done. You have demonstrated actual commitment, selling your house, moving to England and putting in the hard work physically and through your amazing marketing talents. In short, the exact opposite of the criminal neglect the council has exhibited for decades. Speaking as a native of Rochdale who has lived in the US for 26 years, I know a little about the accomplishment of doing what you have done in a "foreign" country. We are in this together, let us know how we can help you.
Firstly, this situation is disgraceful and disgusting. The council did absolutely nothing to save that place and hoped it would literally rot away, granting the college whatever they wanted. Secondly, Hopwood, your character and personality to persevere, have patience and to speak so transparently with such poise is astounding to me! I cannot imagine, not taking a salary and have the council treat you this way. As a fellow southern Californian from the U.S. I do not understand this situation but seems like there is some personal relationships that are between the council and the college and likely a whole heck of a lot of money as motivation for these illogical and personal attacks. I truly wish you success and continue to be a subscriber since you first started your channel and have watched every video following along supporting you from afar. I plan to fill out the petition immediately after posting this comment. I wish you the utmost luck.
I'm so sorry this is happening to you all. I believe you will win the fight, but it's so wrong that you have to fight against them. They should be supporting you.
I've now watched the whole video & am with you all - great to hear so many different trains of thought re this beautiful building, Hopwood! You WILL win!! 👍❤🏠😊
Thanks so much for your support. Please sign this petition to help: chng.it/XX8JVtJgw5
Editorial Note: Due to a privacy complaint, we edited out the full name of an individual between the time codes 54:59 & 56:53
Signed & donated Sir 😊
Signing and Sharing!
Integrity Matters!!
Community Matters!
Beyond Politics!!
Make It Happen!!
International Fan of Hopwood Hall!
I'm shocked at this turn of events. Sounds like the college wants the rights to the property. Hopefully as an heir of the property, you can stop them.
Raise awareness to King Charles. He is a champion of restoration & rehabilitation of important historical estates; including one several years ago that was his personal project and blueprint for successful works such as yours at Hopwood Hall. I think he would be very supportive of the community and continuation of the well-planned and executed project. 🕊️
@@HopwoodXIV Signed, NZ.
Disgraceful behaviour from the council 😢
Something not quite right here. The Council and Developers are up to something. How disgusting. Love from Australia and keep fighting.
Something smells very very rotten! So the contract Hopwood has been working under is not legally binding? I'm shocked and very disappointed by this turn of events.
Do not give up!!!!!
- A Hopwood from Texas, USA
I've sent a link of this video to Historic Homes, Stately Holmes, Historic Royal Palaces and the King's Trust.
I've sent a long email of complaint to Rochdale council. I'd encourage everybody to do the same.
Hopwood - don't give up! You and the team have worked wonders on the hall, rescuing it from the appalling state it was allowed to fall into by - Rochdale Council - the very same that now wants to take it from you!! You couldn't make it up.
Go to the press. Go to your MP. Get on the news - local and national. Start a petition. Recruit some celebrities. Organise a protest. Get a lawyer to do some digging into who's behind the decision, and check that everything's kosher.
I feel we're entering an era when more and more people are increasingly ready to call out and confront over-reaching 'authorities'. Use the zeitgeist! Remind the grandees of Rochdale council that they can very easily be booted-out at the next local government election.
I wish you all the best ❤
This is unbelievable. From America, We stand with you, Hopwood!
Thank you so much!
@@HopwoodXIV contact all UK news channels this is disgusting
Send the council a bill for all the volunteer work that has been done... The Council has been derelict in its responsibility to be a custodian of the hall..
Absolutely. Send them a bill through your lawyer for absolutely everything including every minute of everyone’s labor at going contractors rates, even though they did volunteer. Then give them a payable in full on demand and if they don’t go to court to seize the property and grounds in full in lieu of payment.
Such an over-reach of the government!
It is utterly shameful that the council is trying to do this. This is one channel on YT that gave me hope in humanity. I know it helps the volunteers mental health, and it helps us that watch too! The progress, passion and learning through the restoration is inspiring and I am cheering for you to win this fight from the States.
Couldnt have said it better myself. His channel is inspirational to so many of us - You’ve got this Hopwood! And we’re right behind you along the way! ❤
Hopwood, you need to contact the King and Prince of Whales through the Palace and get His Majesty involved as he himself has been behind restoration and community revitalization of such projects like this. Get the BBC in on this and get with TalkTV - Piers Morgan and stand up against Council corruption.
Prince of Whales 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Shame on this council!
Be loud Hopwood. Local and national news. Tell them all of the shameful act done to you.
I wish you the best. ❤ 🇨🇦
The Council’s behavior is outrageous. You and especially the immediate community as well as lots of others have been so supportive in the restoration of Hopwood. What a wonderful group of people. Good luck to you all.
Thank you so much
They cannot seize the hall! You and your team of contractors and volunteers have done an amazing job restoring your lovely ancestral home- hang in there!!
Thank you for all of your support and kind words!
This made me weep. We are in an identical situation in our small Irish rural community. Almost 4 years of working 4 days a week, our small volunteer group worked hard to save a very unique derelict Victorian Spa Complex only to be locked out. Our story is absolutely identical and your story gives me inspiration to continue the fight.
I am so sorry to hear that the group of volunteers you are a part of have been stopped from continuing on with your work to save a piece of your local communities history.
It is so disheartening to hear of councils ignoring the wishes of their local communities.
I do so hope you feel encouraged to not give up and to keep your eyes on the goal you all have for the future of the spa complex.
Can you share more details so supporters of Hopwood can also get behind your cause?
Fight Hopwood, fight. We've suffered at the hands of government administrators here in the States and nobody dreamed the public would have a voice. I pray for you and the wonderful people who are behind the rebirth of Hopwood Hall.
Thank you Lori
@@HopwoodXIVI'm shocked. Sad about what happened. Be united and don't give up, we need to publicize what the Rockell council did. I'm sorry, but I think that these people who closed the doors to such wonderful work, like what has been done, can only be because they have some type of financial interest - My assumption, because there are more people wanting to destroy, let the that people wanting to RESTORE - (you can't think of anything else, since the restorations are going very well). Did the Rockell council expect that the restoration would not be as successful as it has been? Did the Rockell council want everything to collapse and finally demolish it and then come real estate speculation? The work of this young North American, with his group of volunteers "is against what the university wants". If the university wanted restoration, it should not have left the building in this precarious condition for 30 years. I wish from the bottom of my heart that the community of Middleton together with the young North American people have their doors open and get rid of these people from the Rockell Council who are closing the gates of the building for you.
OMG... Hopwood, I'm in total shock at this news! What the hell? With the awesome amounts of work that have been done on Hopwood Hall so far, the help of so many volunteers, and your RUclips documentation of the work that is going on, how the hell can the council say there, "is no plan," for the restoration? That's insane! Please, please, hire a really good attorney to fight this. Might not hurt to write to King Charles too. He's a huge advocate for restoring old houses, community involvement, etc. Also, get the national media to do stories about it all over England, so there will be more backlash against the council. I live in America, and even I'm outraged by this development. Told my husband and he got upset too. It's really messed up that they are trying to do this. It's just wrong, and they must be stopped. I feel like crying, because I'm so angry. I hate people with bad motives....and then try to hide their actions. If you have an online petition that we can sign, please let us know. My husband and I will sign. I have a few friends that will sign too. We all appreciate the restoration of ancient British estates. Here's hoping you win this battle!!
Thank you for all of your support. Please see our petition if you would like to sign: chng.it/XX8JVtJgw5
I consider myself pretty level headed and unemotional.
But I found myself in tears as I watched this, thinking about the disrespect the council has shown yourself, the volunteers who obviously care so much about the estate, and the experts that have been helping you all along this journey of restoration. So many people putting their time and effort into saving the hall and they can't even make the meeting records public.
It's shameful.
I've seen this sort of thing before with local counsil's and it's to do with the law of undisturbed possession.
Closer to home there was a piece of open green land. The local resident's association put in a request to the local council to use the site for children's events during the Summer months. The reply from the council was that there was no registered owner of the land and therefore they could not grant the request. It not being the council's remit
The council took it upon themselves to mow the green and it was enjoyed by many in the community. it was also an asset to the neighbourhood community. However, after 20years or so a huge FOR SALE sign appeared on the land and the council sold it for development.
Under the law of undisturbed possession, if you have occupied the land, built a fence around it or cultivated the land for not less than 12 years without anyone objecting, the land becomes yours. Mowing the grass by the council constitutes cultivation, something that was not lost on them and that's why they did it. Essentially to eventually claim the land after the 12 years was up. Another 5 years of the Hopwood rescue project will ensure the rightful possession to the volunteers and I suspect that's the reason the council have barred entry to the site. My guess is that Hopwood hall was originally gifted to the community of Rochdale, and not to Rochdale council, which although it might assume governance, but in reallity has no right of ownership. This needs looking into further.
Impressive group of community members, who LOVE HOPWOOD HALL!!! DONT GIVE IN!!!! 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Thank you, Susan.
Why is this happening? A good question to ask in many, many circumstances is, what will we find if we follow the money?
The Town wants the LAND for their College. Like what was stated earlier, follow the Money.🇨🇦
@ksemery
They could restore the hall and include it in the campus. It could because lecture halls a museum and library etc etc. Many Universities and colleges in Europe are housed in centuries old buildings. They could have a school of Historical Architecture and Decoration like they have in Italy.
Signed the petition from the Netherlands. That council must really be ashamed for themselfes. Not fit for the job.
Absolutely shocking. I really hope this decision can be reviewed. Your name is LITERALLY written all over this project. How can a council that allowed it to rot in the first place be trusted with the Hall ever again? Shocking.
I have been following your journey from the very beginning. I am appalled at what is happening.
Hopwood - you have brought so much light, life, opportunity, creativity and a real sense of community to Rochdale. You have so much support and we all share your vision of Hopwood Hall. ❤
Thank you! ❤️
Thank you Hopwood for sharing this for those of us who couldn’t be there ❤️ I was extremely moved by all the testimonies from your lovely volunteers, but also found their resilience inspirational. I, like you all, am dumbfounded by RBC’s mean-spirited decisions but with this degree of public support I look forward to the day when they have to turn tail and back down, what a victory that will be. In the meantime, please look after your mental health Hopwood, I can only imagine the stress & anxiety this is causing you. Sending you support & strength 💪🏻❤️👏🏻🥰
Dear council, to stop something that can become such an incredible place to not only enjoy for years to come, but to learn so many different trades. It’s something that I haven’t seen in any other renovation project. Hundreds of people learning, building relationships, making life long friends. It’s outstanding for the community to have such a huge opportunity as this. There should be no question in your mind that this a project that must continue with the help of the wonderful volunteers and of course Hopwood Dupree. His passion and dedication is how it has come this far. We all pray that you work together to make this Hall the place that it is on the road to be and make millions of people over joyed.
As a Hopwood descendant myself, this is very upsetting. I’ve been watching this channel, SO excited to see this restoration unfold on a family hall I have heard about my whole life but have never been able to see (I’m in the US). I’m praying this can be resolved quickly, and you can continue the restoration of our family home!!
Oh, Hopwood! This news turns my stomach. I pray that you will triumph over this aggressive overtake and that your work will not have been done in vain. I've looked forward to every video you've posted, and this one breaks my heart. Helen from Tennessee, USA.
Thank you so much for watching and for all of your support, Helen!
DONT GIVE UP!!!!! this is just a set back!!!!!! We will ALL let them know how we feel!!!
RESPECT AND DIGNITY HOPWOOD IT TAKES REAL PEOPLE TO SAVE THIS GEM MY HEART IS BEHIND YOU ALL GOD BLESS
Thank you, Michael.
Surely the council is aware they are there for the public. They live in this very area where they will have to face the volunteers & supporters of Hopwood! I wonder if they never really thought this place would look as good as it does and now they see more value in offering it to ‘someone else’. Thousands around the world are watching their terrible behaviour, fight on!
Signed petition and shared. Shame on that council..
Michigan and California we stand by him continuing to fix the hall and allow them to continue it was in disrepair now it's been coming back they have done more to save it than anyone had in years.
Thank you.
I’m in Australia, I am with you all! Rochdale council needs to listen to its community, it needs to support these people ….as a community make them listen!
Keep strong, keep supporting each other…you got this! 😉👍
It is genuinely heartbreaking to hear Hopwood and our volunteers have to make such impassioned and heartfelt speeches. This decision needs to be reversed and they all need to be back in the Hall where they belong. Such great progress has been made despite all the obstacles that have been put in their way. Rochdale Borough Council and Hopwood Hall College should hang their heads in shame; for establishments that claim to both represent and educate our future generations you are showing a very poor example here. Integrity, kindness and respect really should be at the fore in both of these organisations. To Hopwood, who does not deserve to have been treated this way, and the MOST amazing volunteers, WE WILL GET THERE! Please sign the petition, it means such a lot to everyone involved to restore this most important heritage property. #SaveHopwoodHall
Thank you so much for your support
All around the world ...especially in America ... people fell in love with the story and Hopwoods involvement and watched as huge progress was made , I cant imagine why Rochdale Council would renege on the deal and look so foolish .
Thank you for your support.
I was devastated to hear of your plight with the neighbouring college and the council. I will pray for you. I really wish all the best for your endeavours to continue restoring your ancestral home. May god give you strength ❤
I am shocked that they would do this to you and your magnificent community !!! You MUST fight this !!! I am praying for your success in this endeavor . Take it to the news country wide !!! Show them the great things you guys have accomplished !!! 💖💖💖
I feel completely outraged that the council firstly let it get into this state and now want to step in to stop the amazing work you are all doing to save this hall. Hope that you are able to overturn this decision. Sending love from South Australia 🇦🇺 ❤️
Thank you, Heather.
It looks like they want the hall to fall apart completely, so then they can be justified in demolishing it and selling the land to developers.
@@esmeraldagreen1992 Agree one hundred percent. Follow the money and who's receiving backhanders.
I'm so very sorry to learn this. Shame on them. All the best to you.
Thank you
Petition signed and shared. This is such disgraceful behaviour on behalf of the Rochdale Council.
I was missing your optimistic & proactive updates while working within limited budgets. This is shocking to hear. You all captured the hearts, admiration and best wishes of so many around the world with what you’re achieving for preserving this important historic building. For so many to volunteer and give up so much of their lives is amazing. For Hopwood to give up his life & livelihood in America to help save this building has been incredible to watch. I’m gutted, as this community is so lucky to have Hopwood and these volunteers on board. Without him, the building, funding and his promoting the project, the grant wouldn’t be there. Having to be reactive to roadblocks, takes so much longer as Hopwood’s proactive approach. Ps. Hopwood’s mum was as delightful as her son.
Unbelievable!!! Prayers for your overturning this mean council!
This is an absolute disgrace, I have watched every episode of this restoration, since the channel began, I lived in Scandinavia for years during this restoration and one of my first thoughts since returning to the UK was eagerly awaiting public access, so we can come for tours and help support Hopwood and the volunteers with the amazing work they do. This building and the history mean so much more than just for the people of Middleton, just look at the comments to see how many people from around the world are captivated and “involved” in saving Hopwood Hall. I’ve signed the petition and shared it. I hope we can make a difference. Don’t give up Hopwood and all the volunteers. x
Heartbreakingly Discusting!! Go on every media outlet you can! The world stands with you, Hopwood, you got this. ❤❤
This is crazy. I don’t understand why. I support you from Northern New York!
Thank you, Bridget.
You have put in so much work, time, blood, sweat and tears into this project, Hopwood. Your vision for the hall is inspiring and it will create such a lovely space for the community to gather and learn about the history of the Hall. I really hope the council can review this decision and take the time to understand the huge impact of you, and your amazing volunteers, have made to the hall!
Hopwood, you have dedicated your life to this derelict building with a vision of making something incredibly special and important for generations to come!
Thanks so much, Maisie!
Criminal behavior! Petition signed and shared! God Bless You All! ☮💜
That's a load of bull. How dare they. Sending you love and support from Colorado
I’m outraged by this vicious attack by an unreasonable town council that can’t look beyond their own selfish greed to see the greater good of restoring a historic building which has been going on for years now.
There are so many ways to provide employment and beneficial usage for the community of this heritage estate, let alone it being of educational and historic benefit to all. Whoever is benefiting from this decision certainly does not have the community in mind. I am so sorry Hopwood that you are dealing with this situation, and I feel bad for all the workers who put all this effort into it.
Thanks for your support, Joanne.
WTF?!!!! What can we do??? I’ve been following this magnificent project for several years. Had it been possible, I would have joined the volunteers. I share your shock and astonishment.
Thanks so much. It would be great if you can please sign this petition to help: chng.it/XX8JVtJgw5
@@HopwoodXIV already did. Gave as much as I could .
Wow...... this is beyond me and am broken watching this. Rochdale Council you should be ashamed. Hopwood fight this to the bitter end. The support you have from the community is strong as well as your vision. There is something seriously wrong going on.
Signed and shared.
Without the vision, passion and desire Hopwood DP has shown, alongside the hardwork, comittment, dedication and love of the amazing volunteers, the hall would long since be beyond repair. I have seen first hand the work and progress achieved and it is heart warming to see the transformation. They have done a brilliant job thus far #FOHHE🙏
For Rochdale Council to inflict these sanctions is totally abhorrant.They need to take a long hard look at the recent turn of events, and reverse this decision very soon before you do more harm than good .This will come back to haunt you. Shame on you RMBC.
Game on Hopwood !! You have the backing of the local community and we will fight to reverse this decision. God bless. Bev and Michael Peacock.
Thank you so much Bev ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
I am outraged. I have signed the petition and made a donation for support of your cause, Hopwood!
Thank you so much, Cheryl. I really appreciate it.
Wishing you luck and success hopwood ❤️
Thank you so much, Paul.
The council want sorting out its a disgrace. Good luck Hopwood in finding away through this ❤
Don't give up Hopwood, stand together with the community for the hall. Britain is still a democracy, so surely they have to listen.
Thank you, Rebecca.
I just signed the petition. My grandparents (I think) leased and then bought their farm and land from the Hopwood Family Estate in the 1930's. I have been following this channel and read Mr. De Pree's book last year. I hope the relationship with the council can be rebuilt through dialogue and transparency, as so much progress has been made and this project is bringing together many generations of people living in the area to care for and nurture the hall back to life. The obstacles do not seem insurmountable. Wishing Mr. DePree and the team the best of luck.
I am so sorry to hear of this injustice! You poured your heart and soul into preserving your ancestral family home! You will persevier over this newest obstacle.
Thank you.
@@HopwoodXIVI think that the lady who oversees the foundation and/or funding is missing an opportunity for the college and its students to get involved in the restoration of a historic building. The opportunities for them to hold amazing college fundraising, events and more in that building once it is finished or as main halls are completed. I feel that she/they are being unreasonable. They should be working with you and not against you. To help you overcome obstacles and not to create them.
How is this even possible.
I'm shocked and heartbroken. Been following this story with interest for a while, you have all achieved so much. I was looking forward to visiting one day.
Thank you, Sharon.
Disgusting council!I am not local to them, but hope I can join any demonstration that gets organised to demand justice!
My heart aches for you all with this crushing news of the Rochdale Council & School blocking the magnificent work everyone has done thus far to bring back Hopwood Hall to life. I am watching from Australia where many of our buildings are just a blink of history compared to the UK so with this much rich heritage in Britain one would think that especially with the upcoming massive generous grant that the Council would be all but willing to support tenfold the continuing work and dedication to the restoring of this rich beautiful building. I cannot fathom the narrowminded blindness of the so call powerheads at the helm what their agenda really is .... I only hope that you all give them a bloody shake n a half to rattle their noggins to bring them to their sense. I thank everyone for their dedication - watching the vlogs and seeing the luv you all have for the building is beautiful to see and as I can only watch and live through you as you have been bringing the Hall back to life has been brilliant to watch. Thank you again and will have my toes, legs, arms & eyes crossed for the best outcome and the fight ahead with the numpties at the council & school cheers Debz from Oz
I been here since practically the beginning of your saga. I am truly sorry you and everyone who is working with you are going through this. What are they thinking, grand theft? My respect for England will certainly wane if so. I would hope some night in shining armor would come to the rescue..... Keep a stiff upper lip old chap, we stand with you and may god bless. Next election, vote them out. Whatever it takes.
I am pulling for you all in overcoming this major speed bump. Go get 'em!
Shocking news from the Rotten Rochdale Council! Best wishes for a speedy positive ending to this drama from New York.
Love the support you all have given! There has been so much work put into Hopwood Hall, it’s crazy that they are taking that away ….. praying it will not proceed! Another supporter from Texas👍
I am writing from Canada and I can't believe this is actually happening! I have watched the heart and soul of the community and Hopwood pour out to restore this building that was neglected by Council and its members. It is heartbreaking and really tragic. What is their motive?
I have watched every video on your channel, deeply moved by your passion for this building. You relocated across continents, embraced your identity as a proud UK citizen, and welcomed countless volunteers who shared your vision for revitalizing this once-neglected space. Together, you inspired us all to believe in the potential of this place as a future gathering spot.
This property holds profound significance for you-it's your ancestral home. I truly hope that justice will prevail, allowing this challenging chapter to become just a small wrinkle in the rich history of the building. Petition signed!
Given how seriously Great Britain takes its cultural heritage, this council should have been admonished or worse by the national government during all the years of willful neglect of Hopwood Hall. They have proven they have no intention, will, plan or financial interest in even basic preservation of cultural heritage. Shame on them. This is a waste of time and resources, and I certainly hope a resolution is found quickly.
Signed and shared. Good luck, Hopwood. I hope you win and bring your vision for the Hall to the community of Middleton.
Petition signed and donated ❤
Thank you so much! It means a lot. ❤️
From one Michigander to another - keep up the good fight. Always remember that your name is HOPWOOD, like the Hall. Theirs isn't. All the Best.
Have been watching your channel of Hopwood Hall restoration progress for several years. Today I watched the wider community meeting video and I'm appalled at the bureaucratic interferences, back tracking, side stepping, blocking, shenanigans by Rochdale Council. Seems all was running smoothly til that woman Emma Burkitt, a supposed 'consultant' was brought on board. The fact SHE didn't support nor agree with Hopwood nor the H.H. charity and wished to divert the £250K grant to a independent Agency, speaks volume's! I sincerely hope your legal team hold sway to help this project be restored to Hopwood & his valuable volunteers to make this project the success it deserves to be WITHOUT bureaucratic interference. Watching with great interest and support from New Zealand 🇳🇿 PS My ancestors 3 generations back emigrated to NZ on a sailing ship as pioneers from Portsmouth 💙🌏💙
Unreal, having watched your earlier videos and the progress and support of the community I am staggered the arrogance of the Rochdale council. They must be forced to publish the minutes of the meeting that triggered this ridiculous decision. Also the College need to account for their actions and their duplicity in this matter. Petition signed. Andy UK
This is unbelievable! Though community support for Hopwood Hall is deeply moving.
Good luck with your fight, I hope the community wins!
Thank you for your support.
Best of luck to you. We are watching from Michigan and hoping this outrageous turn of events resolves in your favor.
Thank you so much.
I’m gobsmacked. I have watched how you and the volunteers are gradually bringing life to a neglected but beautiful old grand lady. Watching the gardens come to life. I see the passion you and your team have for the hall. You and your team have done more for the hall than the council who left to go rack and ruin.
This is horrible to hear, hope you can find a way to challenge the council and get back to restoring the hall. There’s definitely something dodgy going on with the council acting so underhandedly and sneaky! As an Oldhamer it’s been great to watch your journey of working and caring for Hopwood Hall. Off to sign and share the petition now
Reach out for the King! He is keen to safe historic houses and might be able to pull some strings.
Please keep us posted as to what happens next. Holding this meeting was a very good idea. It might be a turning point.
Thank you.
So shocked to hear your news. Ive signed the petition.
Thank you so much.
This is such horrible news! I live in the USA and found your channel several months ago. Your story about you and Hopwood Hall has been so uplifting. History is so important. I can't believe that the city council doesn't see how important saving Hopwood Hall is for the whole town and England. I pray their hearts are softened and grow to love Hopwood Hall, the city, and its people.
Thank you, Andrea.
My heart goes out to you all. Wish I could do something to help from the States 😢
Thanks so much, Patty. If you would like to support, please see our petition link: chng.it/XX8JVtJgw5
We all love you Hopwood. Justice and good will prevail. Keep the faith and keep on fighting xxx
Thanks so much, Lucy.
Shocking story. If it were the U. S. I would assume that money is at the heart of the suddenness and cruelty of the move. Someone stands to make a killing on either selling or razing the Hall. The college maybe?
Send love and hugs to all the volunteers ❤
Thanks, Rebecca for your support.
🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏Fight fight fight and I will pray pray pray!!!!!!!!
Thinking of you all.❤
Good luck. It's disgraceful that most of the councilors seem to run from this type of transparency that Hopwood and the volunteers exhibit so well. Not only was the decision itself to lock out the people actually saving the hall, obviously incorrect, the sly, underhand way it was done was horribly deceitful, devious and just plain sneaky. Given that RMBC are responsible completely for the mess that the volunteers have been correcting, they just need to hide their heads in shame, stay out of the way and let those who know what they are doing get on with the work. Thank you, Hopwood and the army of volunteers, for everything you have done. You have demonstrated actual commitment, selling your house, moving to England and putting in the hard work physically and through your amazing marketing talents. In short, the exact opposite of the criminal neglect the council has exhibited for decades. Speaking as a native of Rochdale who has lived in the US for 26 years, I know a little about the accomplishment of doing what you have done in a "foreign" country. We are in this together, let us know how we can help you.
Firstly, this situation is disgraceful and disgusting. The council did absolutely nothing to save that place and hoped it would literally rot away, granting the college whatever they wanted. Secondly, Hopwood, your character and personality to persevere, have patience and to speak so transparently with such poise is astounding to me! I cannot imagine, not taking a salary and have the council treat you this way. As a fellow southern Californian from the U.S. I do not understand this situation but seems like there is some personal relationships that are between the council and the college and likely a whole heck of a lot of money as motivation for these illogical and personal attacks. I truly wish you success and continue to be a subscriber since you first started your channel and have watched every video following along supporting you from afar. I plan to fill out the petition immediately after posting this comment. I wish you the utmost luck.
Sending love to all those who have been working on saving Hopwood Hall. I have shared this video on Facebook.
Link to video has been sent to BBC News as well.
I'm so sorry this is happening to you all. I believe you will win the fight, but it's so wrong that you have to fight against them. They should be supporting you.
I've now watched the whole video & am with you all - great to hear so many different trains of thought re this beautiful building, Hopwood!
You WILL win!! 👍❤🏠😊
You guys are doing a great job i have been watching from the start from Doug of London , Canada
Thank you, Doug.
Shame on you Rochdale Council! This reeks of back handers to me 😠🤑💸💰