The restoration of Hartlepool’s iconic Grade II listed Wesley Chapel has reached an exciting new stage, with the internal fit‑out of the building now rapidly taking shape.
Built in 1873, the former Victorian Methodist Chapel is being transformed into a stunning 35‑bedroom boutique venue for weddings and large celebrations. Once left derelict and later used as a nightclub, the building is now being given an impressive new lease of life as one of the town’s flagship regeneration projects.
The opening of the building is planned for later this year.
Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: ““The restoration of the Wesley Chapel is nothing short of inspirational. Transforming a once‑derelict landmark into a stunning boutique venue is a powerful statement about Hartlepool’s ambition and belief in its future.
“This project is breathing new life into the town centre, creating opportunities for local people, and showcasing how heritage and regeneration can combine to deliver something truly exceptional for our community.”
Significant progress on the restoration has been made in recent weeks. Bedroom installation is well under way — including the luxurious bridal suite, complete with a striking stand‑alone bath — while the fully fitted kitchen serving the main function suite is now operational.
The Chapel’s revival forms part of a wider £160 million programme of capital development across the borough, generating new local employment and training opportunities. Among those benefitting is Kristian Emmerson, a trainee joiner from Hartlepool College of Further Education, who has joined the team working on the development.
(Left-right): Trainee joiner Kristian Emmerson, Jomast Site Manager Dan Wheatley, Hartlepool Town Deal Board member Gary Wright and Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council
The £3.8 million Wesley Chapel project is being funded through a combination of £1.4 million from the Government’s Local Regeneration Fund (formerly Town Deal) and substantial private investment from the building’s owner Jomast.
Coun Hargreaves added: “This is a fantastic example of public money being used to attract private investment to help transform our borough and, in turn, provide training and job opportunities for local people. It was a real privilege to meet Kristian recently and to hear him speaking with a great deal of passion about the opportunity he has been given to work on this iconic scheme.”
Gary Wright, a member of the Town Deal Board which is overseeing the project, added: “People across the borough will have their own memories of the Wesley Chapel and I’m sure we would all agree that it is wonderful to see it being brought back to life. I’m delighted with the progress being made and the impact of the Local Regeneration Fund investment in this beautiful building. Credit to everyone involved — the quality of the refurbishment and the craftsmanship on display are absolutely outstanding.”