The remains of an old Independent Methodist Chapel in Crewe have been uncovered on a former car park site, along with historical items.

On Tuesday 28 January, Caddick Construction, employed to carry out works for the new £8.3 million Crewe Youth Zone, 'The Dome,' found the remains on a section of Oak Street Car Park.

This section of the car park is part of the old Bowling Green Street, previously connecting to Oak Street.

An old photograph of the Independent Methodist Chapel on Oak Street/ Bowling Green Street, which opened in 1847 (Crewe Family History Society).

An old 1873 map of Crewe shows the site of the old Independent Methodist Chapel on Bowling Green Street/Oak Street, along with rows of houses.

The chapel is understood to have opened in 1847, initially as a baptist venue, seating up to 300 people.

In 1871, the site was rented by the Independent Methodists, before moving into temporary premises - and then Flag Lane in 1910.

For decades the chapel was left vacant, having a number a temporary uses. It was used as an air raid shelter during World War Two.

Oak Street Car Park was constructed in the 1970s, following demolition of the area.

The archaeological dig was carried out as part of standard preliminary excavation work for Crewe Youth Zone.

Following the exciting discovery, Oxford Archaeology Lancaster were called to the site.

A series of items were found in the 10-metre by 20-metre trench, including a Victorian fireplace, indicating some sort of sitting room.

Items found in the Oak Street Car Park trench included a Victorian stove (The Dome Youth Zone).

Other rooms were uncovered on the ground floor in the chapel. A Victorian stove was found indicating a kitchen.

In another discovery, a bottle storeroom was found with lots having 'Crewe' imprinted on them - the majority are in very good condition.

A bigger room was found to the west of the smaller rooms, most likely where the congregation gathered.

However, as there was no furniture or items in this room, this can't be 100 per cent confirmed.

As well as the chapel remains, archaeologists found a two-metre deep cellar in a former house next door.

The old Independent Methodist Chapel looking north-east on Oak Street Car Park (The Dome Youth Zone).

Archaeologists are now researching the glass bottles found to find more about their links to both Crewe and the chapel itself.

The Dome Youth Zone CEO, Stuart Manifould, told Nub News: "This archaeological dig is a really exciting element of The Dome Youth Zone's preliminary works.

"It has been fascinating to see the foundations of the Old Methodist Church and the items it has preserved.

"We will be giving the items that we've found to Crewe Town Council's heritage department, so that these interesting pieces of Crewe's past, can be returned to the community.

"To see Crewe's rich and interesting history in a place that will soon play a major part in the future of local young people, feels special.

An old bottle storeroom was found with lots having 'Crewe' imprinted on them - the majority are in very good condition (The Dome Youth Zone).

"The Dome Youth Zone, with its amazing facilities and dedicated youth workers, will offer local young people endless opportunities.

"With construction work progressing throughout the year, it will be so exciting to see it all take shape."

Caddick Construction is carrying out the works on Crewe Youth Zone, targeted to open in spring 2026.

READ MORE: Eight Crewe shops found to be selling illegal tobacco.

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