Conservation & Heritage Issue 52 Summer/Autumn 2026 - Flipbook - Page 38
Enhancing the building’s thermal performance was central
to the conservation strategy. An insulated floor slab, new
underfloor heating, and enhanced roof insulation work
together to provide a more comfortable environment for
worship while reducing energy demand.
Level access has been introduced throughout, ensuring
the cathedral can be enjoyed by all worshippers, while
new facilities, including a family room, bookshop, storage
and WCs, support the day-to-day life of the cathedral.
Reconfigured choir accommodation and increased seating
capacity also respond to the needs of a growing congregation
and flourishing music programme, ensuring the building is
equipped to serve its community for generations to come.
Every stained-glass window was carefully conserved and
fitted with secondary glazing, protecting the historic glass
from environmental damage while significantly reducing
heat loss.
Conclusion
The completion of Salford Cathedral not only secures
the future of this landmark building but also enhances
its role as a place of worship, community gathering and
cultural significance within the Greater Manchester region.
The scheme stands as a strong example of how careful,
conservation-led design can successfully balance the
protection of historic fabric with the needs of a landmark
that has sat at the heart of community worship for more than
175 years.
Beyond operational performance, durable Purbeck limestone
was selected for the new flooring for its longevity and long
association with ecclesiastical buildings, while specialist UK
craftspeople delivered the stonework, joinery, leadwork,
metalwork and decorative finishes, addressing national
traditional skills shortages and ensuring repairs were carried
out to the highest conservation standards.
Access and community
While much of the work focused on essential repairs to
the fabric of the building, visitors will notice a remarkable
transformation throughout the cathedral. Improvements
include a new energy-efficient exterior lighting scheme,
restored statues, renewed interior decoration, the
repositioning of key liturgical features, and a new glass
entrance designed to offer a visible sense of welcome in the
heart of the city.
The Cathedral will welcome worshippers when it re-opens
in July 2026.
Specialists in Heritage, Construction and Fit-Out
Proud to be The Main Contractor for Salford Cathedral
Why Simpson
Simpson is a privately owned, family-grown construction company offering fully
integrated construction and fit-out services.
With our in-house joinery workshop, we deliver bespoke craftsmanship and seamless
project delivery from start to finish.
Our Values
We have a client-focused ethos, providing quality services to our clients. Our
success and growth are underpinned by our investment in our colleagues.
Photography © Alex J. Wright
Our People, Our Strength
We care about our team and much of our success is down to their commitment
and development.
Contact:
Email: enquiries@simpsonyork.co.uk
Telephone: 01904 562400
Photography © Alex J. Wright
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Photography © Alex J. Wright
Conservation & Heritage Journal
36
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