The former Pentecostal church is over 300 years old and has stood as a quiet part of the town’s history for centuries.
Like many old buildings, time has taken its toll, but its character, stonework, and presence remain unmistakable.
Mr Costigan who owns his own business, Costigan’s Pointing & Restoration, bought the historic church blind, without ever having entered.
He said: “I purchased the building with the intention of restoring it properly — with care, respect, and traditional methods that suit its age and significance.
“This isn’t about quick fixes or modern shortcuts; it’s about preserving what makes the building special and ensuring it stands strong for generations to come.
“This project is deeply personal. It represents everything my business stands for: quality workmanship, attention to detail, and a genuine respect for historic buildings.
“I’m looking forward to bringing this old church back to life, one careful repair at a time, while honouring its past and securing its future.”
Mr Costigan plans to preserve as many original features as possible, from the Flemish bond brickwork to the decorative stonework, sending stone samples to Womersley’s Ltd for testing, to ensure any replacement stonework used for repairs is the best possible match.
Mr Costigan now hopes to gain planning permission for conversion to a number of flats, with the ground floor left open for use as a potential cafe or bistro.
The restoration journey can be followed on the Costigan’s Facebook page: Costigan’s Pointing & Restoration
17. Refurbishment begins at former Pentecostal Church
The detailing survives Photo: Jack Costigan