Full Roof Replacement Proposed for Tyrone's St Laurence Church
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council will assess a planning application for a full roof replacement at the Church of St Laurence the Martyr in Ecclesville, Fintona, Tyrone.
The proposal calls for removal of the existing roof and installation of a modern high-performance system. Planners will evaluate the works against policies for listed buildings and conservation to ensure preservation of the church's architectural and historical character.
Water ingress has caused internal damage and raised health and safety concerns, including risks from mould, dampness and falling slates. The current roof shows structural failure despite years of minor repairs and maintenance.
Patch repairs have not resolved the issues long-term. Ongoing tile degradation has led some elements to reach the end of their serviceable life.
The church is a detached Gothic Revival Roman Catholic building from 1841. It features a distinctive tower and a later porch with an ornate carved niche holding a statue of St Laurence. Planning documents call it a good example of a large rural church of robust character with longstanding local historical importance.
Keys and Monaghan Architects prepared the application. A decision is due in due course.