Popular South Yorkshire visitor attraction closing for five weeks amid £3m overhaul

Cannon Hall, Park and Gardens announced yesterday, Friday, January 10, that it was closing with immediate effect so work to restore the historic parklands to their former Georgian splendour can take place.

The site is being transformed as part of the £3m Parks for People Project, made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Those in charge of the venue said the work meant the museum and outdoor space, including the car park, would have to temporarily shut before reopening in mid-February.

Neighbouring Cannon Hall Farm, which visitors can access from the main road, will remain open for business as usual and extra parking has been allocated for its visitors during the closure.

Cannon Hall said it had been a ‘difficult decision’ to close the attraction but one that had been taken with visitors safety in mind, given there would be heavy machinery and electrical work in the parklands during the major construction work.

It said the ‘huge benefits’ to the area would include new family activities, the opening up of undiscovered spaces and buildings, the creation of ‘interesting and spectacular’ things to do and the reintroduction of boats on the lakes.

Coun Tim Cheetham, cabinet spokesman for place (regeneration and culture), said: “The safety of our visitors is of utmost importance to us and although it was a very difficult decision to make to close the park – even for a short time – we felt it was vital to do so.

“Work has been scheduled at the quietest time of year to minimise disruption which is inevitable when undertaking such a large scale project.

“When complete the changes will really elevate the attraction, benefiting not only local residents but everyone who visits. We thank visitors old and new for their continued patience during this time and hope they will follow us on this journey as I am sure they will be amazed by the end results.”