Barclays, p Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral wants to reclaim its wing off St Werburgh Street as part of 'Project Discovery'. Credit: via Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral begins Project Discovery by reclaiming neighbouring site

Donald Insall Associates was commissioned by Chester Cathedral in August to develop proposals for upgrades to 30 St Werburgh Street as part of a wider plan to expand the city’s cultural offer.

An application to make the changes has now been submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The proposals are part of the cathedral’s “Project Discovery”, which aims to increase the visibility of Chester Cathedral – in turn boosting the city’s visitor economy.

The site comprises two grade two-listed buildings one of which was previously a Barclays Bank branch. The other adjoining building is currently vacant.

According to the submitted plans, the applicant wants to return the two “substantial city centre heritage assets” to full occupation.

Internal works would consist of repairs, redecoration, and a refurbishment of bathroom and kitchen facilities.

In addition, the removal of the previous tenants’ partitions and office equipment, along with upgrades to lighting, fire, and ventilation systems.

The focus of external works will be on improving the building’s access, as well as car park resurfacing and outdoor lighting upgrades.

Should the application be approved, Chester Cathedral staff could be working in the building as soon as early 2025.

Project Discovery was launched in March this year, completion of the wider project is expected by 2028.

The works at 30 St Werburgh Street constitute phase one of the project

Phase two which will run into 2026 – called Revive – will allow a volunteer hub to be established as well as the commencement of community engagement events.

The final phase three will see a new entrance created for the Cathedral but will require significant fundraising.

To view the application, use the reference 24/02910/LBC on Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning portal.

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