The Church of the Ascension is a Grade II listed building in Lower Broughton, Salford.

It was originally constructed in 1869 and is one of the few surviving 19th-century structures in the area; it stood as a historical landmark amidst rapid residential development.

In February 2017, a devastating fire engulfed the church, leaving only the building’s shell and arcade walls in place. There were initial fears that the whole building would have to be demolished. However, a £5m restoration project was launched to restore the church to its former glory. The restoration officially began with a blessing ceremony led by Canon David Wyatt and the Bishop of Manchester, Rt Revd David Walker. The event brought together the local community, parishioners, and students from nearby schools to commemorate the start of the works.

The project was carried out in two phases: the £2.5m structural restoration and the £2.5m interior refurbishment. The aim of the restoration was to recreate the church as it stood before the fire, whilst ensuring that the new building was sustainable, accessible, and could cater for changing community needs.

The roof structure design adhered to a philosophy of replicating the original design while meeting modern regulatory standards. The hammer beam trusses to the nave were formed in timber with hidden bolted steel plate connections for added strength and stability, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary engineering practices.