Raise funds for the chapel

As he says, it is in a very bad way after years of neglect, yet it’s a grade 2 listed building.

The gift of the Duke of Norfolk to the people of Sheffield in 1899, it was designed by Charles Hadfield, of the leading firm of Catholic architects in the city, who also designed the other structures in the Cemetery.

The regional group of the Victorian Society put the chapel on its Sheffield Buildings at Risk list almost two years ago, in the hope that publicity might stimulate some action.

Sadly it did not, and as in so many other cases the rot continues.

We all understand the council’s dire financial problems consequent on the halving of government grant.

But should we look only to the council to solve problems like this one?

A bit of imagination is needed these days.

Would the Norfolk Estate consider a contribution to repairs?

Would the Diocese of Hallam, which has carried out such an excellent restoration of St Marie’s?

What about the Heritage Lottery Fund?

Is there someone out there willing and able to campaign to raise funds, perhaps to match what the council might be able to provide?

Valerie Bayliss

Chair, South Yorks Group, The Victorian Society