Spire works… complete!

Repair work to Wakefield Cathedral’s spire has now been completed, two-weeks ahead of schedule despite the adverse weather conditions over the past month.

At 247 feet in height Wakefield Cathedral’s spire is the tallest spire in the whole of Yorkshire.

The spire has stood as a significant part of Wakefield’s landscape since the 15^th century, enabling the cathedral to stand out across the region as a place of worship, refuge, and support in the midst of the community and symbolises the continuous presence of the cathedral within Wakefield through changing times and passing generations.

After a 2021 report highlighted significant open joints in the upper sections of the spire and water penetration and seepage in the interior, the cathedral set to work in raising the funds to complete the repair work to protect the spire for years to come.

The total costs for the work were budgeted at £44,900. After receiving generous grants from Historic England and The Headley Trust to cover a substantial percentage of these costs, the remaining funds were raised through donations to the cathedral’s Spire Appeal.

Repair work commenced in December 2021 and now, on Friday 11 March 2022, the repairs are completed.

The Very Revd Simon Cowling, Dean of Wakefield said: “We are delighted that the work on the cathedral spire is now completed, safeguarding the future of Wakefield’s most iconic landmarks for generations to come.

“I would like to say a big thank you to the team from SSH Conservation for their work and dedication to this project during some challenging conditions and also extend my gratitude to all who have helped to fund this vital work – Historic England, The Headley Trust and the generous supporters who donated to our Spire Appeal.”

Entry to the cathedral via the West Doors will once again be available on weekdays beginning from Monday 14 March 2022.

(Image: scottmerrylees.com)