Thursday 20th December 2007
(ref:
WLCT 167/2007)
Wigan Pier’s award winning heritage attraction The Way We Were will close its doors to the public for the final time today, Thursday 20th December.
The famous site has been visited by over ten million people since it was officially opened in 1986. The attraction offered young and old the chance to experience 19th Century life; from the coal face to the Victorian schoolroom.
The Way We Were has won countless tourism and education awards and was also one of the first visitor attractions in the country to bring heritage to life through live theatrical interpretations by the Wigan Pier Theatre Company.
The theatre company will continue to operate to provide acting opportunities for young and old through its twelve satellite theatre groups. The Way We Were’s celebrated education service will also continue to offer learning opportunities across the borough as part of Wigan Heritage Services.
Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust Chief Executive Rodney Hill said:
“The Way We Were has been a real treasure for this borough and it is a sad day to see it close its doors for the final time. I would like to thank all of the staff, volunteers and visitors who have played their part in making this such a revered and innovative attraction for over twenty years.
“I know many people treasure their memories of The Way We Were but we now have to look forward to the future with determination and enthusiasm. The Way We Were has created a great legacy for Wigan Pier to build on. I am confident we can enhance that excellent reputation through the new arts and heritage learning centre and other heritage initiatives.”
Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, who manage The Way We Were, is currently working in partnership with Wigan Council to finalise plans for a new arts and heritage learning centre at Wigan Pier Quarter with the Trencherfield Mill Engine at its heart.
The world famous engine will remain open to the public on Sundays and during the week by advance appointment throughout the regeneration of the Wigan Pier Quarter.
A project team is currently finalising plans for the new £4 million plus facility which will include the world famous Trencherfield Mill Engine as its heritage centrepiece. Plans for the new centre also include a large gallery space, workshops, artists studios and a studio size theatre.
The building that houses The Way We Were will be handed back to Wigan Council in the spring when it has been fully decommissioned. To follow the developments at Wigan Pier or to enquire about visiting the Trencherfield Mill Engine (External link) or call 01942 323666
