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Castlefield Congregational Chapel facts for kids

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Quick facts for kids
General information
Status Grade II listed
Architectural style Red-brick Victorian
Location Castlefield, Manchester, England.
Completed 1858 (1858)
Design and construction
Architect Edward Walters

The Castlefield Congregational Chapel is a special building located at 378 Deansgate in Manchester, England. It first opened its doors in 1858 as a chapel, a type of Christian church. The building was designed by a local architect named Edward Walters. It's considered an important historical building and is officially listed as a Grade II listed building by English Heritage. You can find it in Castlefield, which is a unique Urban Heritage Park in Manchester.

This building has a really interesting history! In the 1980s, it was turned into a sound recording studio. It was owned by Pete Waterman, who is famous for being part of the music production team Stock Aitken Waterman. A very well-known song, "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley, was actually recorded right here in the chapel! Pete Waterman sold the building in 2006, and since then, it has been changed into offices.

A Historic Building in Manchester

The Castlefield Congregational Chapel was built a long time ago, in 1858. It was designed by Edward Walters, a skilled architect from Manchester. The building is made of red brick and shows off a Victorian style of architecture. Because of its history and design, it's protected as a Grade II listed building. This means it's an important part of England's heritage and should be preserved. The chapel is located in the Castlefield area, which is known for its old canals and industrial past.

From Chapel to Music Studio

For many years, the building served as a place of worship. But in the 1980s, it got a new and exciting purpose. It was transformed into a state-of-the-art sound recording studio. This studio became famous because it was owned by Pete Waterman, a big name in the music world. Many artists recorded their songs there. One of the most famous songs to come out of this studio was "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley. This hit song was recorded inside the old chapel, making it a cool piece of music history!

What is it Now?

After its time as a busy recording studio, Pete Waterman sold the building in 2006. Today, the former chapel and music studio has been changed again. It is now used as office space. This shows how old buildings can be given new life and purposes over time, while still keeping their historical charm.

See also

  • Listed buildings in Manchester-M3
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