The demolition of a 170-year-old church because of fears it could attract antisocial behaviour is a “shocking” act that sets a bad example, according to a heritage society.

St John’s Church in Werneth, Greater Manchester, which was built in the Victorian era, was ordered to be demolished by Oldham council, which cited concerns that it could become a target for vandalism and a “blight” on the area.

The Victorian Society, a heritage group, criticised the “wasteful” decision and said that the font and stained glass had been lost for ever.

The church was built in 1844 and consecrated in 1845. It has been unused since the early 1980s but the society claims that the landmark could have been repurposed rather than demolished.

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