Workhouse Ashton-under-Lyne

In 1849‑50, a new union workhouse was built on a site at Chamber Hills to the north‑east of the town, on what is now Fountain Street. It accommodated about 500 inmates and cost around £10,000. The building was constructed of stone from the nearby Barrack quarries.

ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE UNION, NEW WORKHOUSE. The Guardians of the Ashton-under-Lyne Union hereby give notice that the plans, drawings and specifications for the new workhouse to be built at Chamber Hill, Ashton-under-Lyne will, on and after the 24^th instant, be ready for inspection. They will then be prepared to receive tenders and enter into contracts for the several works which will be required in the erection of the same, according to the said plans and specifications. The plans and specifications may be inspected at the office of the architect, 18 Princess Street, Manchester from the 24^th to 31^st of January. [ Manchester Guardian 30 January 1850 page 1]

Guardians instruct Nicholson halt the contract - work not being in accordance with the specification. [Manchester Guardian 15 June 1850]

Reference    Manchester Guardian 16 January 1850 page 1 - contracts
Reference    Manchester Guardian 26 January 1850 page 3 - contracts
Reference    Manchester Guardian 30 January 1850 page 1 - contracts