A medieval heritage site in the Govan area of Glasgow is set to be heated using energy from the River Clyde thanks to a net zero funding boost.
The Govan Heritage Trust has been awarded a grant of £150,000 by SP Energy Networks to make the vital sustainable upgrades to the Grade A Govan Old Church, which sits on the banks of the River Clyde.
The community-run trust took over ownership of the building and the Govan Stones, a collection of early medieval carved stones dating back to the Viking era, in 2007 following the closure of the church.
The church is currently being transformed into a museum to showcase the site’s heritage and expects to welcome over 14,000 visitors each year. The funding will be used to install a new river source heat pump, resulting in a 93% reduction in carbon emissions and a 20% saving in energy costs.
Pat Cassidy, a trustee of Govan Heritage Trust, said, “The Govan Stones are one of Scotland’s most remarkable historic artefacts, and the church itself has become a landmark in the local community. This funding will allow us to make much-needed improvements to our current infrastructure. Not only will we be able to lower our emissions, but we’ll also benefit from a significant saving on our energy bills and be able to focus on the renovations and provide an affordable meeting space for local groups, charities, and organisations to use.
“Two of our longest-standing members, Robert and Catriona Preston, first met in the church back in 1956 when they were in the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade and even held their wedding here in 1962. To this day, they remain an active part of our community and it’s this sense of legacy that the funding will help us safeguard – ensuring both the people of Govan and visitors can make their own memories here for years to come.”
Scott Mathieson, network planning and regulation director at SP Energy Networks, added, “SP Energy Networks takes pride in serving all of the communities of central and southern Scotland. Our staff and networks are part of the fabric of the central belt and it’s right therefore that we play our part in ensuring the most vulnerable customers in our areas also obtain access to the benefits that zero emission energy can bring in transport, heat and jobs.
“The projects awarded in our first round of our net zero fund are diverse and the ingenuity of these community led schemes is inspiring. We feel privileged to help them realise their net zero future. Our next funding round is now open, and we’re welcoming applications from eligible charities and community groups looking to accelerate their net zero plans.”
