Church to improve security at SS Peter and Paul presbytery in New Brighton over insurance fears

Sep 2 2009 by Kevin Core, Birkenhead News

AN APPLICATION has been submitted to erect security fencing around a Wirral church amid fears it could be targeted by vandals.

Shrewsbury Diocese has made the application on behalf of SS Peter and Paul’s presbytery, in New Brighton amid concerns its insurance could become invalid.

Known to sailors as the “Dome of Home”, the building was closed by Roman Catholic authorities in 2008.

The Diocese cited increasing maintenance costs as the reason behind the decision, which prompted a furious response from parishioners and heritage groups.

Now the Diocese has applied to increase security at the abandoned presbytery with the completion of perimeter fencing at its boundary.

Masses are now held in the Anglican All Saints church – which Catholic authorities are negotiating to buy.

John Allen, parishioner at the church for 45 years and a member of SOUL – Save Our Unique Landmark – said: “We are concerned that the Diocese seems hell bent on purchasing All Saints but at the same time they don’t have a plan as to how to meet the ongoing costs of maintaining the existing church because of its Grade II listed status.

“I’ve received indications from councillors that there is no way Wirral Council could take on the responsibility and that must remain with the Diocese. We are worried that the costs of keeping these buildings in a good state of repair can only increase.”

Diocese spokesman Fr John Joyce said: “There has been no priest living there for some time, and to satisfy the insurers, we will do what is reasonably possible to secure the premises. The application reflects that.”