Arson-plagued North Tyneside church poses 'huge danger' if not demolished, says council

A derelict church plagued by arson attacks has been branded a “huge danger” if it is allowed to remain standing, according to council documents.

North Tyneside Council is considering the tearing down and levelling of St Peter and St Paul Roman Catholic Church, in Bardsey Place, Longbenton, and its nearby vicarage. According to a structural report from engineering firm Narro, the building is blighted with structural problems due to a lack of maintenance, fire damage, and pervasive vandalism.

Council documents have also highlighted previous arson attempts on the buildings, which would pose a “huge danger” to neighbouring properties if repeated. The church has been unused and abandoned since December 2014 due to an “insufficient” congregation.

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A planning application stated: “The state of the buildings is poor and can be dangerous to anyone entering the properties. Although enclosed, the buildings are regularly visited by young people, creating a hub of anti-social behaviour in the area. Buildings indicate previous arson attempts, which if repeated will create a huge danger to adjoining properties.

The documents continued: “Due to the condition of the building, any potential refurbishment work would not represent value for money.” Demolition is expected to start on March 3, 2025, and finish on March 30, 2025.

The local authority had also earmarked the site for housing regeneration. In February this year, North Tyneside Council was allocated £1.4m from the now-disbanded North of Tyne Combined Authority to construct 67 affordable homes across three sites, of which the church was one.

The other sites include the former office block, Parkside House, and the former Rosehill Social Club, both in Wallsend.