I don't know if you might have kept up with the ongoing debate on this one, Kiwi, but I'm not sure it's as straightforward as some critics are making out. When the conservatory was renovated (?) some years ago (1980s?), I believe that the original metal structure/framework was replaced by wood, and it's this wood which has deteriorated to such an extent that it has become unsafe. Presumably, if that is accurate, then the Council's job is to decide if they have sufficient funding to be able to do a straight swap (wood for wood). Back in the 1980s, presumably, local government had enough cash floating around to be able to fund projects like that but, seemingly, not so now.
An indicator that an issue like this might occur, is the state of the park generally. I haven't been in for a couple of years but it was looking rather "tatty" even then (lawns needing attention, flower borders similarly looking sparse and uninspiring). The main concern until now had been the removal of boats on the lake (the main complaint being the removal of the passenger boat, "Sunflower?") - yet again not enough funding. Also, staff numbers have been reduced, so you are asking perhaps four men to do the work which had previously, and over the years, been done by nine or ten - the work just can't be done on such a meagre workforce.
Yes, a beautiful old building that has charmed and fascinated families of children and their parents for many generations but, if they can't find the money, they can't find the money. Perhaps another generous benefactor needs to be found. Ashton, and Stalybridge, like the surrounding towns, grew their wealth from massive industries which declined and has now almost totally disappeared. The cotton millowners and foundry owners, through their philanthropy, pumped money back into the towns - it was the nature of the times. I don't think those people are around any more - it just doesn't work like that in the modern era.
