Restoration and Conservation of South Chapel, Bishopwearmouth, SunderlandSunderland City Council

This repair scheme is a conservation-led rescue of a long-abandoned and water-damaged historic Chapel for Anglican service of 1856 to the design of Thomas Moore, a notable Sunderland architect who worked in both the classic and gothic traditions. The chapel formed one of a pair that acted as mortuaries for non-conformist and Anglican denominations within the municipal cemetery. The chapel is sited to the south of the site and closed c. 1990. It’s northern twin (known as the Central Chapel), was destroyed by arson in late 90’s.

The works focus first on stabilising and safeguarding the surviving fabric: making the building secure, dry and weather-tight, repairing roofs, masonry, stained glass, plaster and floors with breathable, compatible materials, and retaining what historic significance was left after vandalism. The spirelet was leaning dangerously and threatened to collapse into the nave before it was temporarily supported and now being rebuilt. The roof slating is a significant item being Westmorland slates in multiple fish scale patterns- we will maintain the patterns in new Westmorland slate as the existing is life expired- though some will be reused on the entrance porch. We will insulate the roof. All the glass has been lost and will be reinstated. Masonry repairs are needed and some major rebuilding of structure.

The proposed fit-out will bring the chapel carefully back into use, placing the new flexible facilities needed for modern bereavement services around the repaired fabric rather than overwhelming it, so the South Chapel can once again serve the public while preserving the character, evidence and dignity of the original building.