Bridge Community Church (BCC) History (1804-present day)

Bridge Community Church Radcliffe, formerly known as New Wesleyan Church Radcliffe, has a rich history deeply intertwined with the Methodist tradition. Founded as a Methodist church, it served as a spiritual home for the community of Radcliffe and surrounding areas.

The church’s origins trace back to 1804, when a group of dedicated individuals came together to establish a place of worship and fellowship. Over the years, the church has played a vital role in the lives of its members, offering support, guidance, and a sense of community.

Throughout its history, Bridge Community Church Radcliffe has undergone various transformations and adaptations to meet the evolving needs of its congregation and the broader community. From changes in leadership to expansions of its facilities, each chapter in the church’s journey has contributed to its growth and resilience.

Today, as Bridge Community Church Radcliffe, the congregation remains committed to its Methodist heritage while embracing a vision of inclusivity, outreach, and service. Guided by faith and a spirit of unity, the church continues to bridge divides and foster connections, both within its walls and beyond, embodying the timeless values of love, compassion, and

This Society has been in existence since at least 1804, and originally met in cottages next to Radcliffe Bridge. In 1815, a chapel was built in Stand Lane on the site currently occupied by the library: this was replaced by the current building in 1883. A Sunday school was built on Irwell Street in 1862, and was replaced by a new building in 1905, which also served as a day school until 1978, when it was destroyed by arson. The Bridge society also ran a mission at King Street between 1893 and 1914. Bridge was part of Bury Wesleyan Methodist Circuit until 1889, when it became part of the new Radcliffe Wesleyan Circuit, and after Methodist union, the Radcliffe Methodist Circuit.

Following a competition, the Society chose Mr A. W. Smith’s design, which was to accommodate 850 persons. One of the other designs considered was by George Woodhouse. Both architects specialised in non-conformist chapels.

At the time of the 1940 Statistical Returns, this chapel could seat 950. Still open for worship.