About our Project

Restoring the Waterhouse Chapels at Ince Cemetery

Welcome to the Wigan Building Preservation Trust’s project to restore and renovate the historic chapels at Ince Cemetery. 

Designed in 1855 by the renowned Victorian architect Alfred Waterhouse, these chapels were his first public works. Waterhouse later became famous for landmarks such as Manchester Town Hall and London’s Natural History Museum, yet these early masterpieces now face the risk of being lost to neglect.

We are pleased to announce that we have received a £10,400 grant from the Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) to conduct a viability report. This essential study will explore the chapels’ condition, restoration costs, potential future uses, and ways to engage the local community in their preservation.

Key Aims of the Project:

• Condition Survey & Restoration Costs – Assessing the chapels' structural needs and estimating budgetary requirements.
• Community Engagement – Establishing a Friends Group to support long-term sustainability.
• Education & Outreach – Collaborating with local schools and the wider community to raise awareness of Ince’s architectural and cultural history.
• Future Use & Adaptation – Exploring sustainable and meaningful ways to repurpose the chapels for modern needs.

This is an exciting opportunity to revive an important historical landmark, ensuring it remains a source of pride for future generations. We invite you to join us in this effort—whether through offering expertise, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.

📌 Find out more: Click links below.

🔗 History of the Ince Cemetery Chapels

🔗 Heritage Productions – Chapels

If you’d like to get involved or learn more please contact us at friendswaterhousechapels@gmail.com

Together, we can preserve these chapels  for our local and national heritage.