The Welsh Presbyterian Church on Princes Road, Toxteth — known as the Welsh Cathedral — has stood vacant for more than three decades and is now in severe disrepair, with a large section of its roof missing. Local residents report significant rat and mouse infestations, with rodents nesting in the dilapidated building and invading nearby terraced houses. The site also serves as a frequent dumping ground for fly-tipping, distressing the surrounding community.
Ownership and Inaction
Audsley Holdings Ltd purchased the historic site in 2022, publicly promising to restore the structure to its former glory. However, since the acquisition, no planning permissions have been submitted to Liverpool City Council to begin restoration works. Directors of the company — including medical professionals and a solicitor — attribute the delays to excessive bureaucratic red tape and difficulties in securing funding. They claim to be working with architects and heritage consultants and expect to move the project forward within the next two months.
Failed Plans and New Proposals
Earlier proposals for a GP surgery and specialist clinic failed. The developers now intend to submit plans for a residential scheme including affordable housing. They insist they remain committed to saving the main building despite its visible deterioration.
Council Frustration
Liverpool City Council has expressed frustration over the building's state and lack of progress. Cabinet member Cllr Nick Small said: “If the owners cannot bring forward a planning application, they should hand the property over to someone who can.” The council noted it has limited powers and budget constraints when dealing with privately-owned listed buildings in disrepair, emphasising the need to balance heritage preservation with viable, sustainable end uses.
Community Sentiment
Residents living near the church are both sad and cynical, with many doubting a meaningful transformation will ever happen. They feel the building's decay is symptomatic of a broader downturn in the protection of the city's architectural heritage.
