Wolverhampton church forced to apply for new fence and gates after attempted break-ins
A historic church parish in Wolverhampton hopes to improve its security after a run of attempted break-ins and groups of people loitering outside.
SS Peter & Paul Roman Catholic Church has applied for new car park fencing and gates to be installed.
The city centre church and the adjoining Giffard House in North Street, adjacent to the Civic Halls, is looking to restrict access to the site after would-be robbers targeted the area.
The application has been made by parish priest Fr. Mark Crisp, who wants to be able to leave the gate to the smaller parish car park open so people can visit for private prayer outside of service times.
Councillor Lynne Moran, who visited the church this week, said: "There have been several break-ins targeting the house rather than the church, which does cause a security concern for the residents. As well as the parish priest there are a number of students there.
“As a result, it is proposed to install a new fence in place of the bollards with a gate for occasional access. The initial boundary fence was installed by the priest before Fr. Mark to act as a deterrent to burglars.
“I shall log my support for the scheme with planners, as I can’t think of any reasons for objection given that the fence will be an extension of existing height and style. I would say that this is a security issue overall,” she added.
Both buildings are Grade II* Listed, with the car park divided into two sections – one next to the church for parish use and the other for general public access. They are separated by a row of bollards.
Spaces in the public car park are leased to local businesses as a way of helping sustain the church financially.
The church was built between 1826 and 1828, with extensions being added in 1901 and 1928.
Planners will make a decision on the application in the near future.
