Longholme Methodist Church:

Longholme Methodist Church, which was built to accommodate a congregation of 1300 people at a cost of £7,000, opened its doors on 18th March 1842. Over the years, it has been subjected to a number of renovations and alterations with the last major refurbishment in 1962 when the chapel was internally re-constructed. This saw the chapel worship area relocated to the first floor with the lower floor being converted for general use. William Anelay was appointed as principal contractor to carry out a phase of internal and external restoration and refurbishment works.

The contract involved extensive roof fabric repairs, including the removal of the existing slates and the replacement of structural timber trusses prior to the reinstatement of the roof slates. Approximately 65% of the roof was salvaged and reinstated, with the deficit being made up from Burlington slate. Existing timber box guttering was replaced with new and lead lined prior to the installation of new cast iron rainwater goods. A small flat roof area was leaded to safeguard the building fabric and prevent water ingress. Two arched window heads were rebuilt and the drainage system was jet cleaned and received some minor repairs to improve performance.

Within the chapel, the project incorporated extensive lime plaster restoration of the first floor’s ornate period ceiling features. The room was decorated on completion of the internal renovations. Additionally the roof access hatch was refurbished with the introduction of a secured metal access ladder.

The church remained in use throughout the construction period with care being taken to minimise disruption to Church visitors and occupants. The project was completed early 2011.