Diocese to appeal on New Brighton church closure ruling

Nov 11 2009 by Liam Murphy, Heswall News

Ss Peter and Paul’s church is Grade II listed and became known as the “Dome of Home”, because it is visible to sailors in Liverpool Bay as they return to port.

The diocese has refused to make any further comment since the ruling, but an official at the Congregation for Clergy was reported as saying it had “received it [the appeal] and it’s under consideration, as any appeal would be. The information presented by the diocese is under consideration”.

Since the diocese has made no moves to re-open the church, SOUL has also launched a case through the English civil courts.

It claims the diocese had agreed to be bound by the Congregation’s decision.

Wallasey councillor Paul Hayes said it was surprising the diocese had appealed, but the campaigners remained confident.

He said: “The diocese gave a written assurance it will abide by the decision of the Vatican.

“There was no mention of reserving its right to appeal and it seems quite plain it now wants to extend the process to delay fulfilling its promises.”