The city is taking steps to save a former West Side church from emergency demolition after preservationists last week criticized plans to tear down the structure, which is one of Buffalo’s official landmarks.

Even though the building has no roof or interior, preservationists insist the privately owned structure is worth saving. Its arched windows, sandstone exterior and other features are part of the region’s rich architectural legacy, said Preservation Board Chairman Paul McDonnell.

“There are certain sections of that building that make it an important building and important to a developer. If that is torn down, it really becomes useless land,” he said.

The Public Works Department confirmed Thursday that it plans to erect fencing around the former St. Mary’s-on-the- Hill Episcopal Church at Niagara and Vermont streets. City inspections chief James Comerford said crews also will pour gravel in several potentially hazardous holes near the structure.

“We’re hoping we can secure this site for the time being and see if we can find a potential developer,” Comerford said.

Meanwhile, the Buffalo Preservation Board said Thursday that it believes the law would bar the city from demolishing the landmark, because any hazardous conditions could be solved by erecting fencing and taking other steps. The board plans to send a letter to city officials stating its position after its attorney reviews the matter.

The Preservation Board also announced that it will try to find a structural engineer who will volunteer to prepare recommendations for stabilizing the 117-year-old building. McDonnell said the main concern is that the structure’s tower may topple.

City engineers were obtaining pricing on heavy-duty fencing Thursday, said Public Works Commissioner Steven J. Stepniak. Any expense incurred by the city would be passed along to the building’s current owner, he said.

According to city records, the property is owned by Bronx resident Julia Myrie-Oyewo. Preservationists said the owner is in the process of selling the complex to an entity in New York City.

Some preservationists believe the city should take ownership of the property using the foreclosure process for unpaid taxes and fines. Preservation Board member Timothy A. Tielman claimed city ownership would make it easier to find a developer.

Due to deteriorating conditions, the case has been pending in Housing Court for nearly two years, said Comerford. A judge will revisit the case next week, and Comerford said he’s hoping there might be discussion about a possible long-term development plan at the hearing. Two previous plans that included turning the complex into a day care center and into housing didn’t materialize.