Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has received a planning application for major roof repairs at St Lawrence’s Church in Lisnabulreavy near Fintona. The church opened in 1841 and holds listed building status.

Inspections found leaks in parts of the roof requiring significant work. A design statement notes past light repairs and maintenance over the years. Tiles have degraded and slipped, allowing water ingress that damaged internal elements.

Multiple patch repairs failed to stop water entry after short periods. The proposed repairs will use traditional materials and methods with modern conservation techniques to match the existing roof style and detailing.

Work aims to preserve the historic structure with minimal loss while ensuring future use. The church will stay open during repairs.

Father James Kelly oversaw construction from 1839 to 1841 as parish priest. Parishioners brought roof timbers by road from Ballyshannon port in Donegal.

The church saw full renovation between 1924 and 1927 with extensions and new features. In 2013 workers renewed the spire, refurbished the bell and replaced defective stonework. Bishop Liam McDaid rededicated the church on January 31, 2014.