Maryport’s Christ Church has been listed as a Grade II building.

Historic England has announced the grading after an application from an unknown person.

The decision was made without a visit to the church due to the coronavirus.

The classification document said: “Constructed of local red sandstone with ornamental slates, its massing and composition has been well-handled by notable architect Charles Eaglesfield of Maryport to make the most of its harbourside location, which it dominates. “

The document mentions “notable fittings” - the clock donated by Thomas Henry Ismay, owner of the White Star Line, and the Vickery bell.

“Maryport’s association with the nationally-important artist L S Lowry is a significant one and Christ Church, especially the striking west end, features in a number of Lowry’s works. The church also features prominently in the work of Sheila Fell a well-regarded locally born and London-based artist, whose painting ‘Maryport’ (1965), featuring Christ Church, was bought by the Tate Gallery.

Christ Church has been identified as an important par of plans to regenerate the town through the Future High Street Fund.

The town was also granted £1.2m recently from Historic England, Allerdale council and Sellafield.

A council spokesman said the listing would do little to change its plans for the church.

The council is working with the owner to look at the possibility of taking it over and turning it into some kind of local museum or art gallery.

The church closed in 2013.