St Helen’s RC Church, Westcliff-on-Sea

St Helen's RC church in Westcliff-on-Sea that was considered for National Listing under the 'Taking Stock' project by the Patrimony Committee of the Bishops' Conference and English Heriatge. As part of the consultation process detailed guidance was submitted on the history of the church and its architecture, resulting in inclusion on the National List.

The Gothic Revival church, following the influence of A.W. & E.W. Pugin, features extensive use of decorative polychrome brickwork and carved stonework, as used in the C19 by the significant architect George Street. Indeed the carved work was carried out by Thomas Earp, George Street's favourite stone mason, emphasising the historic connection.  Not evident on site today due to modern interior decoration, is the use of polychrome stonework to the Gothic aisle arcades and Sanctuary arch. This appears particularly fine from photographic records and hopefully will one day be restored to the church interior.

For further details see https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1420920