An exciting project to transform an old church at the heart of a bustling roundabout in Swansea into a vibrant new space for coffee, pizza, and living is nearing completion. The grade II listed St John’s Church in Morriston has undergone a near five-year restoration project led by Andrew Shipley of ADI Design. Approved by Swansea Council in February 2020, work began in May of the same year to convert the church into a café, restaurant, and flats. The project, set to be unveiled to the public in May or June 2025, will feature a 48-cover cafe, a 60-70 cover restaurant with mezzanine flooring, and four loft-style apartment flats.
The renovated church retains its original charm with stained-glass windows and plush-looking flats. The interior boasts a new coffee shop and a restaurant equipped with a pizza oven for serving up delicious Italian cuisine. Outdoor seating has been incorporated around the church’s perimeter, creating a welcoming space for visitors to relax and enjoy their meals. Amidst the final touches being made to the interior, Mr Shipley expressed his satisfaction with the project’s progress, acknowledging the challenges faced in working with a listed building but emphasising the importance of preserving heritage and bringing the space back to life for the community.
Mr Shipley highlighted the diverse offerings within the revitalised church, which includes an independent café, a wood-fired pizza restaurant, and residential flats. Addressing concerns about the church’s location in the middle of a roundabout, he reassured the public of its accessibility and safety, emphasising the historical significance of the building and the value it adds to the community. Stressing the need for alternative uses for disused churches, Mr Shipley underscored the importance of preserving heritage and repurposing spaces to ensure their continued relevance and contribution to the community.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the imminent reopening of the church, Mr Shipley shared his personal connection to the building and his vision of its role within the community. He highlighted the emotional ties many residents have to the church, having celebrated significant life events within its walls. With a track record of successfully converting other churches in Morriston into residential use, Mr Shipley views the project as a way to revitalise the local area and create a vibrant community hub. Emphasising the potential economic and social benefits, he envisions the church as a catalyst for revitalising Woodfield Street and fostering a sense of community among residents and businesses.
In a call for operators to run the café and restaurant, Mr Shipley invited interested individuals to get in touch, viewing the project as an exciting opportunity to contribute to the local community. With a focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive space, he aims to establish a hub for social interaction and culinary experiences. As the finishing touches are put in place ahead of the public opening, anticipation is building around the transformation of this historic building into a dynamic hub for dining, socialising, and community engagement.