The Work of Stott & Sons for the Linotype Company at Altrincham 1: The Works

ABSTRACT The architects Stott & Sons of Manchester are chiefly known for their work in designing cotton mills, but in 1896–9 they were responsible for the works and adjoining housing estate of the Linotype Company at Broadheath near Altrincham, Cheshire. This early example of an electrically powered factory, located on an early example of an industrial park, was built for the manufacture of the Linotype hot-metal typesetting machines that had been developed in America. It used mainly American machinery and can be seen as illustrating the loss of British technological supremacy. The main part of the works was of a single storey, built on the weaving shed principle, and fronted by an elaborate office building. Electrical power was generated on site in a large power house containing reciprocating steam engines driving DC generators. The works has now been largely demolished, although the office building has been converted for residential use and a few other features have been retained in the modern redevelopment.