This morning, Bethesda Chapel in Hanley opened its doors for a special event, inviting the community to discuss the future of one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most treasured heritage sites. Often referred to as ‘the Cathedral of the Potteries,’ this iconic building has long held a place in the hearts of many, and today’s gathering was a reflection of the community’s deep commitment to preserving this important part of our cultural history.
The organ being played in Bethesda Chapel
The event, organised by Re-Form Heritage, the organisation behind the revitalisation of Middleport Pottery, brought together a diverse group of local residents, heritage enthusiasts, and representatives from various organisations. It was a delight to see familiar faces, including the well-known and beloved historian and friend, Fred Hughes, and many others who came to show their support for the chapel and explore its potential future.
Bethesda Chapel, a Grade II*-listed building which is on the at-risk register, has a rich history dating back to 1797 when it began as a small wooden coach house that could seat 150 people. The chapel quickly outgrew this modest structure, leading to the construction of a larger building in 1798. Over the years, the chapel was expanded and redesigned multiple times to accommodate the growing congregation, eventually reaching a full capacity of 3,000 people, making it one of the largest chapels of its kind outside London. Despite its large size, Bethesda Chapel is renowned for its wonderful acoustics, which enhance the experience of music and speech within its walls.
The chapel’s pulpit was designed by Robert Scrivener, the same architect responsible for Hanley Town Hall. The building itself is a marvel of craftsmanship, featuring 67-foot-long beams of Canadian Redwood, which were shipped to the UK via Liverpool Docks. An unusual feature for a Methodist chapel, Bethesda also includes a crypt, which has intrigued many, including myself, as I hope to one day explore this hidden part of the chapel.
Despite its early success, the chapel closed for worship in 1985 due to dwindling congregations and subsequently fell into disrepair. It was left empty for many years and suffered extensive vandalism. However, through the dedication of local heritage groups and funding from various sources, Bethesda Chapel has been lovingly restored. Now, it needs a new lease of life to ensure it remains a vibrant part of our community.
Re-Form Heritage, appointed as the Heritage Development Trust for Stoke-on-Trent in December 2023 under a national programme funded by the Architectural Heritage Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, is currently exploring potential new uses for Bethesda Chapel. This effort is part of a detailed viability study funded by the Architectural Heritage Fund, aimed at determining whether Re-Form Heritage is the right organisation to take on the responsibility of preserving and repurposing this historic building.
During today’s open day, the community had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities designed to gather input on the chapel’s future. The event began with a beautiful organ recital, setting a reflective tone for the day. This was followed by opening remarks from the Friends of Bethesda Chapel and Re-Form Heritage’s Chief Executive, Dr Alasdair Brooks, who outlined the significance of the chapel and the importance of community involvement in determining its future.
Displays were set up around the chapel, highlighting its rich history, unique architectural features, and the challenges it has faced over the years. These displays served as a catalyst for discussions on how the building might be used going forward. Ideas already on the table include transforming the chapel into an arts and cultural venue or an educational centre, but the possibilities are far from limited. The neighbouring One Bethesda Street, a Grade II-listed former bank built in 1858 for The Potteries Savings Bank, is also being considered as part of any future development plans. In 1889, the Staffordshire & Potteries Water Board expanded into this building from their original purpose-built premises next door.
Re-Form Heritage must decide by October this year whether they will take on the project or if another organisation might be better suited to secure the chapel’s future. As Dr Brooks noted, “Bethesda Methodist Chapel is a fantastic, amazing, and wonderful building, but it is also a highly complex one. We need to undertake a detailed viability study to make sure we can identify a sustainable future use, which respects the chapel’s history and heritage before any decision is made to take on the project.”
Zoe Sutherland, Heritage Officer at Re-Form Heritage, emphasised the importance of public involvement, stating, “We want to explore what people value about the chapel and One Bethesda Street, and how they might be used in the future. We would love to engage with individuals and groups with an interest in heritage, communities, and regeneration, as well as local businesses, to find out what they think these buildings should be used for.”
As the event drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of hope and excitement about what the future might hold for Bethesda Chapel. The community’s passion and ideas will undoubtedly be instrumental in ensuring that this historic building continues to be a vibrant part of Stoke-on-Trent’s cultural landscape.
What Do You Think?
Now, we turn to you, the local community. What do you envision for the future of Bethesda Chapel? How would you like to see this historic building serve our city in the future? Your thoughts and ideas are crucial to this process, and we invite you to share them with us.
Join the conversation and let me know what you would love to see Bethesda Chapel become and let's ensure it remains a cherished part of our heritage for generations to come.
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