‘Built to Last’: Lecture 3 Upper Crescent and Strangford PresbyterianChurch

Architect Gerry Rogers and Director of Finance and Operations Katie Jackson, tell the story of the restoration of one of Belfast’s most elegant terraces. Built in the mid 19th century, the grand residences of Upper Crescent had fallen on hard times and by the late 20th century were appearing in the Buildings at Risk catalogue and being threatened with de-listing. Now sensitively restored, they once again form one of the grandest terraces in Belfast.

Melanie Hamill will tell the story of the restoration of a listed village landmark. Having lain derelict for many years and featuring in the Heritage at Risk register since 2003, Strangford Presbyterian Church faced the fate of many historic churches: declining congregations, eventual closure and years of abandonment. Since 2016, Melanie, an architect, and her husband Marty, an engineer, have carefully restored the former church and preserved its character whilst giving it a new lease of life. Today the building has been reborn as award-winning tourist accommodation and is welcoming full houses once more.

· Tickets are available through Eventbrite via the UAHS website and should be purchased in advance.

Members: £12 Non-members: £15 Students: £6

· Wine/Soft Drinks (included in ticket price) will be served from 6.30 pm.

Lecture to start promptly at 7 pm.

· Copies of Built to Last will be available to purchase on the night.

· Venue: The Old Museum Building, 7 College Square North, Belfast BT1 6AR.

Please note that due to the historic nature of the Old Museum Building, we regret that it is currently unsuitable for wheelchair access.