Heritage campaigners, musicians and the local community have come together to safeguard the future of a unique parish church in South Liverpool. St Michael-in-the-Hamlet is a Grade I Listed building and was described by eminent architectural historian, Quentin Hughes as being “virtually a museum of early 19th century cast iron architecture.”
Historical significance
Built and designed by foundry owner John Cragg in 1815, its Listing citation recognises the Aigburth church as “one of the earliest and most thorough uses of industrial materials in a major building.” However, the church’s future is now under severe threat pending a decision on an application for additional funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund for essential repairs to ensure the structural integrity of the unique 200-year-old building.
Community support
Campaigners and supporters have until August 3 to make representations to the National Heritage Lottery Fund to save a cherished architectural landmark. Heritage campaigners, including the Merseyside Civic Society and Save Britain’s Heritage have been recruited to lobby in support of the funding application.
Keith Hitchman, Vicar of St Michael’s said: “St Michael’s is not only a highly valued and much loved heritage asset for the city of Liverpool, it’s also a thriving hub for the local community as a place of Christian worship, a vibrant community space and, more recently, an important live music venue.
“St Michael’s is connected to so many aspects of Liverpool’s human story, and I am delighted that so many people have come together to back our funding application and safeguard our future.”
Local voices
Maggie Hilditch lives nearby and uses the church. She added: “The church and church hall are used by so many local groups. It’s really the glue that holds this very diverse and vibrant community together.
“The funding is about much more than saving a building, it’s about sustaining a space that is so valuable to so many people and groups within this community.”
Anne Bush, from the St Michael’s 1815 Heritage Association, said: “It’s unthinkable that the future of such an architecturally unique building could be in jeopardy.
“We are reaching out to conservation and architectural heritage groups to support the funding application and secure the future of one of only two cast iron churches in the country.”
Cllr Tom Crone is among those supporting the efforts to keep the church open. He said: “Ever since I was first elected to represent this community, I have recognised the vital role that St Michael’s plays in the life of this area.
“It not only literally defines the identity of the area, but it is a focal point for so many different activities that bring people together.
“It’s a living space that grows and evolves to meet the needs of local people and the wider city. Who would have imagined that an Anglican church would become one of Liverpool’s coolest and most innovative music venues?”
