A dispute has arisen in the Haigh Hall regeneration project over the non-renewal of contracts for creative directors Al Holmes and Al Taylor.
- The creative duo expressed their astonishment at the decision, claiming political reasons were cited for the termination.
- The situation has sparked significant public backlash and a petition for their reinstatement has gained momentum in the community.
- Relatives of artist Theodore Major have also withdrawn due to lost confidence in the project’s management.
- Wigan council acknowledges the contribution of Al and Al but refutes allegations of inaccurate event descriptions.
A significant conflict has emerged in the ongoing renovation efforts at Haigh Hall, with the creative directors, Al Holmes and Al Taylor, expressing their shock and dissatisfaction upon learning their contracts will not be extended. The esteemed pair, who have been pivotal in advancing the project since 2021, were informed by Wigan council officials that their interim contracts, which concluded on August 31, would not be renewed. This decision, described by the directors as unexpected, was allegedly driven by unspecified ‘political pressure’ and ‘political concerns.’
This development has triggered a substantial public reaction, particularly on social media platforms like Facebook, where a petition advocating for the reinstatement of Al and Al has gained considerable traction. Many individuals from the Wigan community have voiced their discontent, highlighting their shock and disappointment at the decision to terminate the directors’ involvement while the project remains incomplete.
Further complicating the situation, the descendants of acclaimed artist Theodore Major have opted to retract their support for the project. Major, a prominent figure in Wigan’s art history, was to have his works displayed in the renovated hall. However, Ruth Owers, his granddaughter, communicated her loss of trust in the council’s leadership, citing this lack of confidence as the reason for her decision to disengage from the initiative.
Wigan council, on its part, responded by expressing regret over the public allegations made by Al and Al, particularly criticising what it termed as incorrect descriptions of events. Despite this, the council recognised the significant impact the creative directors had on shaping the project’s vision and expressed gratitude for their contributions.
Al and Al reiterated their dedication to making Haigh Hall a cultural centre for Wigan and the broader North. They emphasised their collaborative efforts with local and international artists and various project stakeholders. The project had attracted notable support from influential entities, including the Major and Lindsay families, the Arts Council, and significant funding bodies like the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Levelling Up Fund, collectively amassing £20 million for the restoration initiative.
The Haigh Hall restoration project faces uncertainty amidst creative leadership changes and stakeholder withdrawals, highlighting complex governance challenges.
