A Grade II* listed building,[1] it stands on Bridge Gate overlooking St Alkmund's Way.

[2] The church was designed by Augustus Pugin[3] in 1837 to replace a small Gothic building in nearby Chapel Street.

He originally planned for the tower to have a 100 feet (30 m) spire, but budget restrictions prevented this from being implemented.

[5] His final design was presented on 17 March 1838, and construction began that same year, with the foundation stone being laid in July 1838.

[6] Building was completed by 9 October 1839, when the dedication service took place with Cardinal Nicholas Wiseman preaching.