Plans for remedial works at St. Winefride Church in Holywell

Leader Live

16 hours ago

A planning application has been submitted to Flintshire Council regarding the St. Winefride's Roman Catholic Church in Holywell.
The church holds national significance - with Holywell being recognised as one of the most historically important Catholic pilgrimage destinations in the country.
The church's presbytery, with its 17th-century origins, is of particular historical importance, reflected in its Grade II listing. Its designation highlights the well-preserved historic buildings, which provide insight into the architectural style and liturgical functions of the church during its period.
The church is named after St Winefride - a 7th-century Catholic martyr. The nearby St Winefride's Well, a holy well and shrine, has been welcoming Catholic pilgrims for 14 centuries and is one of the Seven Wonders of Wales.
The proposal is for extensive remedial works at the church's western façade.
A planning statement says: "The presbytery is in a state of significant disrepair. Extensive water damage has affected the structure, leading to chipping paint, broken windows, deteriorating render, and roof defects.
"These issues have contributed to mould growth, rotting timber, poor internal air quality, and persistent dampness, among other concerns. Without intervention, ongoing deterioration is highly likely to result in structural failure or irreparable damage."
It adds that if repair works aren't carried out, a "substantial amount of important historical architectural history could be lost".
The statement continues: "The proposed works require a re-model of the western façade of St Winefride's Catholic Church Presbytery with the removal of the conservatory at its gable end. The state of repair of the gable end is contributing to an ingress of rainwater, which is damaging the structure of the building.
"Page 4 of the report of by Vale Consultancy states that the current structural condition of the conservatory means that renovation would practically be close to impossible, without extensive replacement and underpinning to conform to modern Building Regulations.
"Their assessment concluded 'Due to evidence of water ingress/ dampness, sloping ground floors, possible subsidence, and poor detail between the glass roof and the main wall, it is suggested that the Green House is demolished and rebuilt in modern construction'."
(Image: Planning documents) The work would be completed in four phases - which would begin with the demolition of the conservatory.
Phase two will also involve carrying out conservation works on windows considered to be the most important in the building, appearing to date from the second quarter of the 19th century and having "fine gothic detailing".
(Image: Planning documents) Phase three would involve repairing all internal walls within the utility room and toilet area damaged by ingress of rainwater with lime plaster.
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Phase four includes repainting the presbytery gantry due to corrosion.
(Image: Planning documents) The statement concludes: "The planned refurbishment and remedial works will improve the overall condition of the dwelling, prolong the life of the listed building, and enhance the surrounding area's appearance.
"While the repairs may introduce minor changes to the building's heritage, the practical benefits far outweigh any impacts, leading to a significantly improved visual appeal.
"In conclusion, the proposals are considered essential to the ongoing care of the presbytery, thoughtfully designed with respect for its existing materials and architectural aesthetic."