Salford's fairy tale chapel dubbed 'Rapunzel's castle' at risk of falling to ruin

A decade after the Victorian Society named it in the top ten of the country's most endangered buildings it remains in desperate need of love, care, and cash. But a new campaign has been launched to save a Salford chapel which resembles a fairy-tale castle.

The Grade II listed Agecroft Chapel, shrouded by trees and ivy with its tower looming through the greenery resembles the lonely Gothic retreat of Edward Scissorhands Other admirers have likened it to Rapunzel’s castle.

In 2012 the Victorian Society named the ‘woefully neglected’ as at risk. In 2020 SAVE Britain's Heritage chose it as it's building of the month to highlight the urgent need for action.

Now local businessman, Alan Whitehead is hoping to galvanise Salfordians "around the world" to rescue the chapel. The owner of Moss Farm Fisheries on Chat Moss, Irlam, he said: "I am 100 per cent confident it can be saved. I have had enough of seeing beautiful land historical buildings in my home city being lost or left to decay.

"I know the council can't afford to repair it, but if they showed some love for it, that would be a start. They need to get around a table with people who are passionate about it like me, and local historians, and find a way forward. It has been estimated that £1m is needed to restore the chapel. We will need Salfordians everywhere to help - I am sure there are others, like me who want to save it and leave it as a legacy for others."

He has launched a change.org petition which has been signed by more than 370 people so far. He has already lobbied Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham seeking support and several Salford councillors.

In 2015 there were hopes that progress was being made. Agecroft Cemetery Chapel Restoration Group joined forces