Report into potential merger of three northern dioceses published

Bishop Marcus Stock

Source: Diocese of Leeds

A report based on a consultation process led by Bishop Marcus Stock, into the potential merger of the Dioceses of Leeds, Middlesbrough, and Hallam into a single diocese, was unveiled today, October 15 2026.

The consultation process was launched in March this year, with a deadline for responses set for May 22.

It included clergy, religious, lay faithful, parishes, schools and services across the three dioceses.

A questionnaire was distributed to gather input on how the merger could strengthen or challenge the shared mission and pastoral care, and the practical, spiritual, and structural implications of working under one bishop.

Seven consultation meetings have been held to discuss the proposal.

Bishop Stock, who is already the Bishop of Leeds and Apostolic Administrator of Middlesbrough, was also been appointed Apostolic Administrator of Hallam to oversee the process.

Now the report is complete, Bishop Stock will submit a report to Pope Leo, who will make the final decision on whether the merger proceeds.

The Dioceses of Leeds and Middlesbrough were originally part of a single Diocese of Beverley (established in 1850) but were divided in 1878 into Leeds and Middlesbrough. The proposed merger would reverse this division, uniting the three dioceses under one leadership structure.

Read the Report: www.dioceseofleeds.org.uk/publication-of-the-bishops-consultation-report-to-the-holy-father/