Almighty row over revamp of church
THE MODERNISATION of a Grade I-listed church has caused an almighty row. Skeletal remains were uncovered after work took place at St Cybi’s in Holyhead, Anglesey.
Locals were also infuriated that Victorian pews were removed and “replaced by plastic chairs” and the organ “sold off” as part of a refurbishment, part-funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund.
Church in Wales officials confirmed skeletal remains were uncovered during an archaeological investigation by Gwynedd Archaeological Trust to establish the substructure of the church floor and were reburied with “due dignity”, and went on to defend the work taking place.
They said the ongoing work is for the benefit of the community and has been approved by worshippers and the authorities.
These include the 40-strong congregation at the 13th-century church and the Ministry Area Council, which is the church’s governing body, and Cadw. But these assurances did little to stem the righteous fury unleashed on Facebook about the changes.
One woman wrote: “People of Holyhead, this is what’s happening to our beautiful church. They have removed the pews and given them away, replacing them with plastic chairs, The organ is in storage, been sent to another church!!!
“They have found numerous skeletal remains ...There is a shop, kitchen , children’s play-area going in” and “solar panels are to go on the roof”.
Another feared the work would impact tourism: “Cruise ships come in and St Cybi’s is the only place of interest.” If they visit the “lovely 13thcentury historical church” now they will find “the heart ripped out of it”.
The Church in Wales said skeletal remains have been found during an “exciting project” to preserve and improve five churches including St Cybi’s. They have been reburied with “due dignity”, according to a spokesman.
He added: “Llefa’r Cerrig – Stones Shout Out is an exciting project run by the Diocese of Bangor to preserve, renew and improve five of our most beautiful and historic churches, including St Cybi’s Holyhead.
“These churches are an important community resource, providing space for worship but also for local events and meetings. Throughout the centuries they have stood the test of time and have required continuous care.
“It is our duty and our privilege to preserve these buildings so that they continue to serve the future needs of the local community. The improvements we are making to St Cybi’s are part-funded by Levelling Up and will ensure we preserve this historic church building as an important centre for use by the local community.”
He added: “At present St Cybi’s is closed while major work is being carried out. Once the work is complete St Cybi’s will reopen and will continue to be a place of worship, but will now have better facilities to enable a greater range of community events to take place in the building. In order to create a more flexible space for events, we are installing new oak pews which can be easily moved depending on the type of event. We will also be having a new underfloor heating system with a heat pump.
“This will help reduce our carbon footprint and will make the building a more comfortable place. We are creating comfortable seating for families to use during services and a retail trolley that can be used during events.
“During the renovations, skeletal remains were discovered and have been reinterred in St Seiriol’s Cemetery with all due dignity and the relevant Christian rites.”
It would have cost £200,000 to renovate the organ. It will be passed to another church which needs it and can afford to run it.
Isle of Anglesey County Council said it would not be appropriate to comment.