A programme to continue the work of restoration to the fabric of the church began in 1990 and
will continue for several years.
Between 1976 and 1990 the church architect Gordon Thorne D.A(Manch) FRIBA, directed
conservation and restoration to the Nave roof structure, the upper tower above clock level,
including a new lead roof covering and stonework repairs and re-pointing.
The completion of Phase 1 works, directed by Dane, Ashworth, Cottam of Manchester,
has been completed.
As has Phases 2 & 3 carried out during 2008 and 2010 at a cost of some £500,000 by
John Prichard of Lloyd Evans Prichard Ltd.
Works carried out to date include:
Phase 1 & 2 re-slating of the roofs to the nave and side aisles including gutter and
rainwater system.
Phase 2a re-ordering of the interior including the removal of the 19th Century seating in
the Nave and Aisles, improvements to the West Porch entrance and the provision
of lavatories, kitchens and storage areas in the North and South staircases. The
heating and electrical installations were improved.
Phase 3 Preservation of the roof and vaulting timbers to bay 1 following the discovery of
an outbreak of Dry rot at the base of one of the spars at the end of 2002.
Stonework, tracery and glazing repairs and restoration.
Phase 4 is our current schedule of work is complete. Stonework, tracery and glazing
repairs and restoration and Preservation of the roof and vaulting timbers to bay 2 & 3
at a cost in excess of £236,000.
A partial floodlghting scheme for the tower is now in operation allowing this important
landmark to be seen from afar. An extended scheme to light other areas of the church is being
considered.
The renovation of stonework on the lower sections of the tower and to the window
tracery, walling, buttresses and roof pinnacles of the south west corner will be our fifth
phase and start in early in 2012. Fundraising through Parish events and monies from
Grant aiding bodies continues unabated to complete the total restoration by 2021 in celebration
of the laying of the foundation stone 200 years before.
1999
2006
2007
2005
2008
2010
2012