DISCUSSIONS were held by councillors to determine what the future holds for St James’ Church in Holywell.

Members conversed on the matter at Tuesday evening’s monthly meeting with plans to establish a performing arts space.

Councillor Aiden Coleman, representing Holywell West, said: “Three years ago, in the summer of 2016, we formed a committee from within the congregation at St Peter’s about the future for, and of, St James’ Church.

“Last year, the Diocese of St Asaph gave approval for all the pews to be removed from the church, with the construction of new toilet and kitchen facilities and the renewal of the heating and electrics and for the construction of a new sound studio.

“The vision that the committee had was formed in 2016 and continues to be that St James’ would serve Holywell as a place of worship such as on Remembrance Sunday, at Christmas, for baptisms and funerals but that as primary use would be as an arts and performance venue for Holywell and West Flintshire.”

The St Peter’s committee initially began working with a group called ‘Emerge Community Arts’ however they pulled out of the project in September 2018 and said they would look elsewhere for a venue as their base of operations.

Cllr Coleman ended his presentation by saying that a meeting with the committee would be held again in March. He proposed to say at this meeting that, if in 12 months’ time if there is no significant progress – such as finding the money to complete phase 1 (the removal of the pews) – then St James’ Church will close.

The West Holywell councillor asked his fellow councillors to consider what help they can offer to help give St James’ Church a future and help to keep it at the heart of the Holywell community.

Cllr Karin Davies said: “If we look back in history, the church was always there. It would be awful to lose a part of Holywell and we need do everything in our power to keep this as part of our lovely community. The town would not e the same without St James’ Church.

“Looking back, I know it has been a well-used church when St Peter’s was not open. I understand it can be quite trek to get down to St James’ but I feel quite strongly that we shouldn’t give up on this vital part of Holywell.”

Councillor Michael Brooke also added that it would be a “major tragedy” to lose the “iconic building”.

Cllr Ted Palmer then raised an item at the meeting suggesting that, if not being used as a performance space, the council would find another way to be a community asset – as the building remains a “vital part of Holywell’s identity”.

Councillors discussed the possibility of hosting fundraising events to help raise the profile of the building’s situation.

Holywell brothers Richard and Adam Johnson, who appeared on Britain’s Got Talent in 2013, are set to perform at the venue on St David’s Day (March 1).

Let us know what memories you have of St James’ Church in Holywell by contacting news@leaderlive.co.uk or call 01352 707717.