VITAL repair work will be carried out at seven churches and a cathedral after a new funding package was announced by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES).
Over £1.55 million of funding will ensure these buildings are once again wind and watertight. The cash will also be used to explore the history of many of the churches which will be shared with the community and visitors through events, publications and digital media.
Lucy Casot, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund explained, “Scotland’s amazing array of churches provide a focus for many community activities particularly at this time of year. HLF is delighted that, working in partnership with the Historic Environment Scotland, we are able to help these congregations secure the future of their buildings. Not only will they be wind and water tight but activities and events will reach out to new generations encouraging many more through their doors.”
Frazer Gibson, project officer for Historic Environment Scotland added, “Throughout the centuries, Scottish society has been intrinsically linked with religion, with the local place of worship often forming the focal point of communities. As a result, a great deal of resource has been expended throughout those years to create some of the country’s most important and carefully constructed buildings.”
The places of worship to benefit from the funding are:
First-round award
Shettleston New Church of Scotland, Glasgow – £235,200
St Michael’s Kirk, Inveresk – £228,000
Paisley Central Methodist Hall – £228,600
St Mungo’s Parish Church, Alloa – £248,000
St Anne’s Episcopal Church, Dunbar – £162,000
St Ninian’s Cathedral, Perth – £241,600
St Mary’s Parish Church, Kirkintilloch – £203,000
Second round award
St Ninian’s Episcopal Church, Glen Urquhart – £243,400
