TWO Wrexham buildings which appear on a new list of hidden architectural gems are at risk, it has been revealed.
Each year campaign group Save Britain’s Heritage (SBH) sets out to highlight a selection of “sleeping beauty” buildings across England and Wales.
Included in the latest collection, entitled Live and Let Die, are Jones Cottages in Minera and the former Baptist chapel at Newbridge.
SBH describes Jones Cottages as a pair of rubble stone cottages built about 1865.
It adds: “Sadly, these houses have been neglected and have been decaying for over a decade.
“The relevant permissions are in place for a scheme to combine the two and create one dwelling and for extensions, but there has been no progress and they remain at risk.
“Major repairs are needed to the roof, chimneys, window frames and doors and the rainwater goods need replacing."
SBH says the old Baptist chapel at Newbridge is now for sale and has a chance to be rescued and restored.
Grade II listed, it was built in 1825 and has a schoolroom attached to one side.
SBH adds: “Empty for some time, extensive repair work is now required on the chimneys and windows while the rainwater goods need replacing and the roof, walls and doors need maintenance.
“This small building is sited immediately below the railway embankment in a small grassed yard. It could make a delightful home subject to the relevant consents.”
David Watson, Wrexham Council’s principal planning officer, said: “Jones Cottages were visited at the end of March by officers who assessed the condition of the building had deteriorated.
“Officers have since tried to establish contact with the owners with regards to urgent repair work. In 2006 both planning permission and listed building consent was granted to refurbish the cottages.
“The former Baptist Chapel was granted planning permission earlier this month to convert it into a single dwelling.
“The bid for Listed Building consent for alterations is currently under consideration.”