CARDIGAN town councillors have expressed their sadness at the news that an iconic town centre chapel has been put up for sale.

Tabernacl, a towering Calvinistic Methodist chapel which has dominated Pendre since 1832, has played a key role in the life of the town for almost two centuries.

During that time it has been the venue for countless weddings, funeral services and eisteddfods.

But councillors have now confirmed that the chapel itself and adjoining house have been placed on the open market after local resident Steve Blundell raised his concerns about its future.

In a letter to the authority, Mr Blundell spoke of his disappointment at seeing ‘a historical resource placed on the open market and in danger of being lost to the community’.

He continued: “There must be a way to intervene and prevent this devastating loss of a Welsh facility?”

Cllr John Adams-Lewis said both the chapel and chapel house were Grade II-listed buildings, while Cllr Richard Jones revealed that the chapel vestry had not been put up for sale.

Cllr Clive Davies agreed with Cllr Graham Evans’s observation that the chapel which was altered in 1864 and re-fronted in 1902, would be ‘a sad loss’.

“This is part of the town’s heritage but the loss of this type of building mirrors the future of chapels across the country who are having to contend with falling congregations,” he added.

“I just hope good use is made of it – it would be a great shame to see it go as it’s such a grand building in the centre of town.”

Cllr Evans also posed the question as to whether Cadw – the Welsh ancient monuments association – had been made aware of the move.

Cllr Catrin Miles said what had been ‘an extremely difficult decision’ did not come under the remit of the town council.

“But we understand Mr Blundell’s concerns and hope that some sort of community use is made of the building,” she added.

“Beyond that I do not think the town council can do any more other than to reiterate that we share Mr Blundell’s disappointment.”