The diocese of Calicut was spread out to an area of 13051 Sq. Kms. in six revenue districts. In the context of such an extensive area there was the need of a new diocese for the benefit of the faithful. Bishop Maxwell Noronha, in consultation with the priests, religious and the laity requested the Holy See to establish the new diocese of Kannur.

The Holy Father, Pope John Paul II by the Apostolic Brief, dated 5 November 1998, created the Diocese of Kannur from the Diocese of Calicut.