St Peter’s Church, Wolverhampton
Client: Parochial Church Council (PCC) of Central Wolverhampton
Project: Chancel masonry repairs
Location: Wolverhampton
Status: Completion due 2026
Stone by stone, preserving the legacy of Wolverhampton’s most historic church.
St Peter’s Church, with origins rooted in an Anglo-Saxon foundation, is a well-known historical landmark in Wolverhampton. The Chancel, rebuilt in 1862 by Ewan Christian in red sandstone, stands as a testament to the enduring significance of this sacred space. The church, listed Grade I, has long been a cornerstone of the local community, and its care is of paramount importance.
In 2021, Oliver Architecture was commissioned by the Parochial Church Council (PCC) of Central Wolverhampton to conduct a Quinquennial Inspection. The inspection revealed extensive masonry damage to the Chancel, prompting the development of a carefully considered conservation strategy. This plan focused on addressing the widespread failure of stonework, with repairs funded by The Church Commissioners Trust. In February 2024, Croft Building & Conservation commenced work on site, assessing and identifying stone in need of repair.
Client: Parochial Church Council (PCC) of Central Wolverhampton
Project: Chancel masonry repairs
Location: Wolverhampton
Status: Completion due 2026
Stone by stone, preserving the legacy of Wolverhampton’s most historic church.
St Peter’s Church, with origins rooted in an Anglo-Saxon foundation, is a well-known historical landmark in Wolverhampton. The Chancel, rebuilt in 1862 by Ewan Christian in red sandstone, stands as a testament to the enduring significance of this sacred space. The church, listed Grade I, has long been a cornerstone of the local community, and its care is of paramount importance.
In 2021, Oliver Architecture was commissioned by the Parochial Church Council (PCC) of Central Wolverhampton to conduct a Quinquennial Inspection. The inspection revealed extensive masonry damage to the Chancel, prompting the development of a carefully considered conservation strategy. This plan focused on addressing the widespread failure of stonework, with repairs funded by The Church Commissioners Trust. In February 2024, Croft Building & Conservation commenced work on site, assessing and identifying stone in need of repair.
|
|
The first phase of the project has centred on the delicate dismantling and reconstruction of damaged stonework. The new parapet panels, hand-carved from St Bees Red Sandstone, complement the original material while respecting the historical craftsmanship. The £800k stonework restoration also includes the installation of new handrails to ensure safe access for ongoing maintenance.
Looking ahead, the next phase of the project will focus on the restoration of the historic windows. In keeping with our conservation philosophy, we aim to integrate contemporary interventions that speak quietly yet meaningfully to the building’s legacy. The goal is to enhance St Peter’s Church for future generations while allowing the architectural layers of its history to remain visible and appreciated.
Looking ahead, the next phase of the project will focus on the restoration of the historic windows. In keeping with our conservation philosophy, we aim to integrate contemporary interventions that speak quietly yet meaningfully to the building’s legacy. The goal is to enhance St Peter’s Church for future generations while allowing the architectural layers of its history to remain visible and appreciated.