Preston’s Syro-Malabar cathedral is added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register

A landmark church has been added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register.

Saint Alphonsa Of The Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Preston has “rot and movement” in high-level masonry, the watchdog said.

It said despite some repairs more cash was needed to complete its restoration.

Meanwhile, Capernwray Hall Park and Garden in Carnforth, Lancaster, has been removed from the register following “considerable repairs”.

Saint Alphonsa, which is Grade ll listed, is an early example of a Gothic Revival church designed by London architect Joseph John Scoles, Historic England said.

It added that the building was the focal point of the Saint Ignatius Square conservation area, surrounded by Grade II listed terraces and its spire was a major Preston landmark.

Constructed between 1833 and 1836, its initial purpose was to serve the massive increase in Catholic residents of Preston during its industrialisation in the 19th century.

The church’s ownership was transferred to the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain in 2016.

Its interior boasts gold angel corbels, highly decorative carved stonework, mosaics and marble sculpture.

The cathedral has undertaken various phases of repair, but issues remain and further funds are needed to complete the restoration.