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The Diocese of East Anglia has embarked on a significant programme of emergency and restoration works at the historic church of Our Lady and the English Martyrs (OLEM) in Cambridge, following the discovery of serious issues with the high-level stonework and pinnacles of the church tower.
In the summer of 2023, a report from a specialist contractor highlighted concerns over the stability of some of the stone elements of the tower. Recognising the potential risks, the Diocese acted swiftly to initiate emergency works, removing any dangerous stonework and putting plans in place for a longer-term programme of repairs and restoration. This work has been developed in close collaboration with the parish, the church architect, and Historic England to ensure that both the safety and historic integrity of the building are preserved.
The current phase of works marks the beginning of an ambitious restoration project, led by church architect Henry Freeland. At present, extensive scaffolding is being erected around the tower, a complex process that will take several weeks to complete. Once in place, specialist contractors and stonemasons will carry out essential repairs, including the restoration of multiple pinnacles, the replacement of severely degraded Victorian stonework, and the reinforcement of at-risk masonry. Selective stone cleaning will also be undertaken to remove over a century’s worth of pollution and grime, allowing the tower to regain its original splendour.
The restoration works are expected to continue throughout the spring and summer of 2025, ensuring the church remains a beacon of faith and heritage for generations to come. The Diocese is grateful for the support of The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation, whose generosity has helped make these crucial works possible.
OLEM have a fundraising target of £300,000 to support the repair works. For more information and to donate follow this link.
You can listen to Matthew Champion, Historic Churches Support Officer at the Diocese of East Anglia, on Cambridge Radio discussing the works at OLEM. Go to 2:07:30 in the below recording for the segment.
