An American actor and filmmaker has lost a High Court case in which he sought to purchase a historic mansion for £1. Hopwood DePree, who claimed ancestral ties to the Grade II-listed Hopwood Hall in Middleton, Rochdale, was "incredibly disappointed" after a judge ruled against him.
DePree argued that a 2017 agreement with Rochdale Council granted him the option to buy the manor house, provided he secured planning permission for its restoration and redevelopment. However, Judge David Hodge KC determined that the conditions for transferring ownership of the property had not been met.
Hopwood Hall, despite its current condition, was described in court as being among the top 10% of the most important listed buildings in England. DePree's ambitious plans for the estate included transforming it into a wedding venue, hotel accommodation, and visitor attractions, aiming to revitalize the historic structure.
In 2022, Rochdale Council decided not to transfer ownership to DePree and subsequently restricted access to the site for him and a group of volunteers. The legal proceedings incurred costs of approximately £150,000, and the council is expected to seek reimbursement from DePree.
A spokesperson for Rochdale Council expressed satisfaction with the judgment, stating that the costly court battle could have been better utilized for the hall's upkeep. The council and Historic England have jointly invested over £1.6 million in the hall since 2017, with further essential repairs planned. The council aims to ensure the building, once restored, will serve the community of Middleton, which holds the hall in high regard as a significant part of its heritage.
DePree, who published a book about his restoration campaign titled "Downton Shabby" in 2022, indicated that he and his legal team are discussing their next steps. He emphasized that their efforts to save Hopwood Hall would continue, noting that he has received global support and offers of assistance.