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CEFF Project: Bannagh Chapel Preservation Project

This project aims to protect and preserve the original stained-glass windows of Bannagh Chapel which are in urgent need of repair to prevent drafts and leaks, which are already occurring.
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CEFF Project: Bannagh Chapel Preservation Project

Project Partner:
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This project is being delivered by Bannagh Chapel Advisory Committee and aims to protect and preserve the original stained-glass windows in Bannagh Chapel which are in urgent need of repair to prevent drafts and leaks, which are already occurring.

Bannagh Chapel is located close to the shores of Lower Lough Erne and Boa Island where many of the congregation in the past came from. The building is a community building (only funeral masses are said) and is open every day. It welcomes many visitors and tourists as it is a part of local heritage and tourist trails.

The project will also involved local primary school which the chapel is already partnered with, St. Joseph’s PS in Ederney, for art and history projects, and with local tradesmen who will work with the contractor appointed to re-learn heritage skills. Local craftsmen and tradesmen are already involved in other aspects of work to the building including roof and floor repair. In addition the project will work in partnership with Ederney Community Development Trust and Kesh Development Association who will publicise the project, its aims and objectives and progress as well as outcomes.

Project Updates

Restoration of windows – February 2023

The Bannagh Chapel Preservation Project was initially delayed due to the impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic in 2020, however, we are pleased to report that the project is nearing completion. With the help of the Lough Erne Landscape Partnership and a lot of time provided by local volunteers, Bannagh Chapel has had it’s stain glass windows restored, along with the installation of storm glass to further protect and futureproof the windows.

Since the restoration, Bannagh Chapel Advisory Committee have expressed that there has been an increase in visits from local people and tourists, with visitors returning on a regular basis. They have also confirmed that the improvements to the building have improved the overall temperature inside the building, and stopped the intrusion of leaks and damp – keeping the building safe from the outside elements, as well as preventing further deterioration of the building.

The project worked closely with 9 volunteers, whom are local tradesmen, who have learned building skills such as plastering and window installation in this process. The project partnered with local school, St Joseph’s Primary School, Ederney, whom studied, visited and drew the building. This element of the project brought a sense of community and understanding of the local area to the young students.