Multi Denominational Chapel, Zone J, The former Maze Prison, Halftown Road, Lisburn, BT27

This is a multi-denominational chapel, built around 1985 or 1986, serving Zone J, or Phase 3, of the Maze Cellular Prison. It is considered an important structure relating to the prison’s operation. The chapel is situated within its own weld mesh compound, with simple vehicular and pedestrian gates on its southern side. It lies north of an east-west internal road, south of the Phase 3 ‘H’ Blocks (Blocks 6, 7, and 8). To the north is open land, and to the northwest, the tall concrete dividing wall between Zone F (administration) and Zone J.

The chapel’s main body is an externally rendered octagonal structure finished with pea-grit gravel. A polygonal entrance block projects to the south, and a rectangular projection to the north houses the altar and vestry. The pitched, pyramidal roof comprises eight planes supported by internally exposed radial laminated timber truss beams. Windows are located on the east and west walls of the chapel and in the altar area, but are plain and not decorated. A small grey brick security lodge with a slate roof stands to the south of the chapel and its enclosure, featuring a door to the west and windows on all sides. The building sits within a gravel garden enclosed by a low grey brick wall.

The chapel is architecturally similar to the multi-denominational chapel in Maze Cellular Phase 2, both being contemporary with the main prison entrance and visitor complex (Zone J). Prior to their construction, religious ceremonies were held in the double cells of the ‘H’ Blocks. The listing includes the chapel itself, its fenced enclosure, the security hut, and the surrounding low garden wall. The building was designed by the Chief Architects Division of the Department of the Environment (Northern Ireland) Works Service.