Conservation & Heritage Issue 52 Summer/Autumn 2026 - Flipbook - Page 36
Salford Cathedr al: A Glory
Renewed and Restored
Purcell has completed a full-scale restoration of Salford Cathedral for the Diocese of
Salford, one of Greater Manchester’s most significant Grade II* listed buildings.
Revealing the splendour
the reinstatement of historic fixtures and fittings and the
introduction of new bespoke and liturgical furniture.
Designed in collaboration with Cathedral Architect Chris
Cotton, Purcell was appointed in 2019 as Lead Architect to
deliver the ‘Restoring the Glory’ project, a comprehensive
three-year programme of conservation works aimed at
safeguarding the Cathedral’s sacred character and celebrating
its Victorian Gothic Revival design, while securing its future
for generations to come.
Listening first
Purcell’s approach to conservation is based on thoughtful
understanding. At Salford Cathedral, this meant taking
the time to understand not only the historic fabric, but also
the aspirations of the Diocese and the experiences of the
congregation.
Having served as the spiritual heart of the Diocese of Salford
for more than 175 years, the cathedral was in urgent need of
extensive restoration and repair to meet the evolving needs
of the community. Externally, this has included extensive
longstanding structural repairs to the stonework, roof, and
spire, alongside careful cleaning and repainting. Inside the
cathedral, the scheme encompassed a full redecoration and
repositioning of the spatial layout to better support worship,
Lead Architect Tom Brigden reflects:
“
For us it starts with listening. By listening to those who
use the building every day, we gain valuable insight into
what works well, what presents challenges, and where
the project can make the greatest difference.”
Photography © Alex J. Wright
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