AN APPLICATION has been submitted to the council for approval to demolish a "redundant" Roman Catholic church.

Consent is sought to knock down St Peter and St Paul's Church on Woodlands Road, Haresfinch.

The application, received by St Helens Council in September, is for "prior approval for (the) demolition of redundant church, presbytery and parish club".

Plans say the redundant buildings would be, if left unoccupied, "at risk from vandalism and fire".

Demolition would be carried out using a hydraulic excavator.

The proposed demolition works would take place between November 29, 2021 and January 28, 2022.

The application is open to standard consultation to the public, which started on September 22.

This lasts until Wednesday, October 13.

A determination deadline on the demolition plans is set for October 13.

A spokesman for the Arcdiocese of Liverpool said: "In early 2020, prior to lockdown, consultations took place in the parish of St Peter and St Paul, Haresfinch, and in the wider St Helens pastoral area, regarding pastoral provision in the area.  

"Following these discussions further consultations took place with the archdiocesan Council of Priests and the archdiocesan trustees and the decision was taken to close the church building.

"In line with government regulations the church was closed during lockdown in 2020. 

"In light of the decision of the archdiocesan authorities it remained closed following the lifting of restrictions. Pastoral provision for the parishioners of St Peter and Paul is now provided at Holy Cross, St Helens."