Salford Cathedral has shared exciting details of proposed interior repairs and redecoration as part of the Cathedral Restoration Project.
The internal works will begin in Spring 2023 and will require the temporary closure of the church. During this time an alternative space will be provided.
These internal works will follow on from external repairs to the cathedral beginning in 2022, which include:
The main aim of the Cathedral Restoration Project is to conserve the mother church of our diocese, renewing its exterior and interior, ensuring that the cathedral is fully sustainable and a source of spiritual inspiration for future generations.
Large parts of our cathedral are in extremely poor repair. This is the right time to fix these and restore some of the original design features that have been lost over the years and enhance what we are able to offer the diocese and cathedral parish. These repairs will be performed using sustainable materials and methods.
As part of this project we will seek to provide full equal and integrated access across the cathedral.
The altar will be relocated near its original position under the tower crossing. This will help restore the original splendour and ambience of the space.
Additional seating will also be provided within the chancel for members of the clergy and choir. Whereas the cathedral currently seats around 370 people, the proposed layout will provide seating for up to 450 people.
The current cathedral interior is very different from its original appearance – in the 1840s (when the cathedral first opened), the cathedral would have been brightly decorated with stencilled patterns, ornate furnishings and fittings and highly detailed encaustic tile floors. Successive re-orderings have meant that the cathedral has lost a lot of its exceptional detailing, ecclesiastical ambience and interior character.
The intention is to introduce interior finishes that match with the style and character of the original finishes. It is important to remember that the original design will not be replicated but will instead influence the modern design proposals. An image shown above demonstrates the ambition for the flooring scheme which utilises encaustic and geometric tiles manufactured by the same company that supplied tiles for the cathedral in the 19th Century. Separate images above show the proposed and original ceiling and wall decoration which will be refurbished to a condition sympathetic with the original.
We have grown to understand historical buildings in a different way over the last few decades and the restoration project will look to renew the interior while remaining sensitive to the Cathedral’s Grade II* Listed status.
The re-ordering, repair and restoration project will not only restore Salford Cathedral’s heritage and sense of sacred space but will maximise capacity for the growing community and visitors alike. It is an opportunity to look to the future of the cathedral and as part of the process we will provide space for diocesan events, a growing congregation and a flourishing music programme.
Information boards are currently on display at the back of the cathedral if you want to learn more. If you have any further questions or would like to submit any feedback please read and/or fill out this Information Leaflet and Feedback Form or email communications@salfordcathedral.co.uk
You can follow Salford Cathedral’s restoration journey here.
