Drill Hall, Manchester New Road, Middleton

THE PROPOSED DRILL HALL AT MANCHESTER NEW ROAD, MIDDLETON The sketch gives a good idea of the proposed new Drill Hall to be erected for the local volunteer company on a plot in Manchester New Road Middleton. The building when complete will comprise a large room on the basement 14 feet high which can used for miniature shooting practice drilling recruits for recreation purposes. Adjacent to this room in the basement will be placed the lavatory conveniences, heating chamber, etc. On the ground floor we approach the Drill Hall through a wide passage having on the right a good-sized retiring room lavatory etc complete and the left the armoury 20 feet square communicating with Drill Hall This room is planned to be 84 feet long and 50 feet wide and will be lighted on three sides and the room will be supported by five circular principals giving clear uninterrupted space to the interior. On the next floor upstairs there will large recreation room for the use of the men with a room set apart for the use of the N.C. officers of the company. The drill instructors house is placed at the south end of the block and direct communication is provided between the house and the armoury. It is intended that the building shall be a substantial one in all respects and will merit the generous appreciation and support not only of the volunteers but also of the general public. The architect is Mr T A Fitton of this town whose design selected in limited competition. [Middleton Guardian - Saturday 7 March 1891]

Reference           Middleton Guardian - Saturday 7 March 1891 with illustration.