Published Thursday, 09 February 2012
The Carlisle Memorial Methodist Church stopped holding services in 1982 as a result of the declining congregation and its location at a major interface area. The iconic building is now in a critical condition having empty since the late '80s.
In 2010, The World Monuments Fund recognised the church as one of the 100 most endangered historic buildings in the world.
Designed in the Gothic Revival style by noted architect W. H. Lynn and completed in 1875, the church was once home to one of the largest Methodist congregations in Belfast.
On Thursday, Environment Minister Alex Attwood pledged his support to the preserving the important piece of built heritage.
He said: "Carlisle Memorial Methodist Church is one of Belfast's best known listed buildings and is a hugely important landmark at the entrance to West and North Belfast from the city centre.
Carlisle Memorial is a jewel in our historical crown and after its conservation, it will have a great beneficial impact for the economy, tourism and for health and well being.
Environment Minister Alex Attwood
"This funding will help secure its future and, following its conservation and regeneration, will be a great opportunity to both revitalise and provide a significant economic boost for the area."
He added that while it was "not economically feasible to save every historic building," before adding that it is "vital that we do as much as we can to preserve our rich past for future generations."
"Why shouldn't the many tourists who visit our shores every year, flock to it as they do to our other historic sites in turn revitalising the area as a gateway to visiting north and west Belfast."
A spokesman for Belfast Building Preservation Trust described the Department's support is "critical in stabilising and securing the building and allows us valuable time to work towards finding a vibrant and sustainable regeneration solution."
Alliance Councillor Sara Duncan has welcomed the announcement saying the extra funding will be "a major boost" to the local area.
"I wholeheartedly welcome this funding. This iconic building is the only church left of three which were originally at Carlisle Circus.
"It is such an iconic building that is known throughout Belfast and beyond. I have great memories of it myself from my childhood when I visited my grandparents who lived close by," she added.
"I drive past it every week and have observed with sadness its gradual deterioration. It is just one of a number of Victorian era buildings throughout Belfast and I am passionate about preserving and reusing these buildings which give Belfast its distinct character.
"I hope to see further regeneration in the area."