Department of Engineering at the University of Cambridge is beginning a new project that aims to help understand the issues currently faced by the Church of Our Lady and English Martyrs in the city.

A student from the Department of Engineering at the University of Cambridge is beginning a new project that aims to help understand the issues currently faced by the Church of Our Lady and English Martyrs in the city.

The grade 1 listed building is of national significance, but in recent years questions have been raised concerning the safety of some of the high-level stonework. Following the recent loss of one of the pinnacles from the bell tower emergency works were undertaken in 2023 to remove any potentially unsafe stonework. The new project is a collaboration between the church and the University.

Dr Sam Cocking, of the Department of Engineering at Cambridge, said: “Over the years, cracks in the pinnacles have exposed their internal iron bars to water, causing corrosion and further damage to the masonry. This is a particular concern given the loading on the pinnacles from the wind and the possible vibration of bell ringing. The work is required to investigate methods of monitoring and assessing the condition of the pinnacles.”

The project, by MEng student Rajiv Nailadi, is initially using a laser to measure any vibration or movement in the pinnacles of the bell tower. This information will then be used to inform and help plan any repair works to the stonework of the tower.

The Church of Our Lady and English Martyrs is a familiar sight on the Cambridge skyline, with the spire visible across the whole city. Built in the decorated Gothic style, it was designed by Dunn, Hansom & Dunn of Newcastle at the sole expense of Mrs Yolande Lyne-Stephens.

The foundation stone of the church was laid by Bishop Riddell of Northampton on 30 June 1887 and the finished building was consecrated in October 1890. It was recently raised to being Grade 1 listed by Historic England in recognition of its national significance.

Diocesan Heritage Officer, Matthew Champion, said: “This project gives us a fantastic opportunity to understand more about this wonderful building. The findings of the project will be used to help us plan the repair and restoration of the church, and ensure it remains one of the city’s best loved landmarks for many generations to come.”