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Teenagers admit arson attack on former chapel

Michael Wilkinson An aerial view of the building well alight with several fire engines parked up and firefighters spraying water on to the flames.Michael Wilkinson
The Grade II listed chapel was being turned into a hotel at the time

Three teenagers have admitted to starting a "devastating" fire at a Grade II listed building.

The former Wesley Methodist chapel, on Victoria Road in Hartlepool, was engulfed by flames on 7 November 2023 while it was being converted into a luxury hotel.

A 16-year-old and two 15-year-old boys admitted arson when they appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court, but said they did not intend to start the fire.

They were granted conditional bail and are due to be sentenced on 12 February.

The teenagers cannot be named because of their age.

The chapel, which was built in 1873, had been described as a heritage asset for the town.

Hartlepool Borough Council An exterior view of the Wesley Chapel in Hartlepool a large Victorian building but in some state of delapitation Hartlepool Borough Council
The teenagers who admitted the arson attack on Wesley Chapel will be sentenced on 12 February

The building has been unused since it was damaged in a fire in 2017.

Council leader Mike Young previously told BBC Radio Tees he was "devastated" by the news of the blaze.

Developers have said they will continue with plans to convert it into a hotel.

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