August 15, 2025

From Abandoned Church to Dream Home

Written by Ashley Leung

Buying a property is never simple, especially when it’s a disused 19th-century church in rural Carmarthenshire.

However, for Russell and Lea Fennell, first-time buyers of a commercial building with dreams of transforming it into a cosy home, expert legal guidance made all the difference.

The couple, originally from England, fell in love with the character of the former St Alban’s Church in Cwmduad and the warmth of the local community, but the journey from initial interest to completion was anything but straightforward.

“Our clients had never purchased a commercial or ecclesiastical property before,” said commercial property solicitor Ashley Leung. “They needed more than just a conveyancer; they needed someone who could guide them through a uniquely complex legal process with clarity and care.”

The acquisition also posed several legal hurdles, including:

The sellers’ solicitors were not local to Swansea, and protracted delays followed due to slow responses and gaps in knowledge about the building.

The contract required bespoke transfer documentation, with strict execution procedures that added weeks to the timeline.

In addition, the title to the property included specific exceptions and reservations relating to mines and minerals, requiring a bespoke indemnity policy to ensure the clients were protected from this risk.

Ashley provided targeted legal advice to explain the implications and sourced a tailored indemnity insurance policy to protect the Fennells’ investment.

Despite the complexity, the matter was completed successfully, with both buyers overjoyed at the outcome and the personal service they received.

“We didn’t know what to expect when buying a church, let alone one in a completely new part of the country,” said Lea Fennell, “but Ashley was outstanding from the start. She walked us through every step and prevented legal problems,” said Mr Fennell.

Whether you’re purchasing a commercial property, a heritage building, or a residential home, Peter Lynn and Partners Solicitors combine local knowledge with legal expertise.

With offices across South West Wales, the firm specialises in all aspects of commercial property and land, providing bespoke legal advice tailored to your needs.