£1.5M Heritage Lottery funding for seven historic churches

Eight historic religious buildings in Scotland - seven churches and a cathedral - are to receive a share of £1.5M Heritage Lottery funding. For all the latest history, heritage and archaeology news and features from industry professionals, read History Scotland magazine.

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 (pictured) - £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

This funding will ensure that these historic buildings are once again wind and watertigh,t providing a venue for worship and a hub for community activity. The funding 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; and many of the churches will train volunteers to give guided tours.

HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE

Frazer Gibson, Project Officer for Historic Environment Scotland, said: '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.

'Nowadays many continue to serve as a hub for the communities they serve, but they can also be appreciated for their aesthetic value and historical importance. Places of worship are undoubtedly a vital part of Scotland’s built heritage, and we are very happy to be able to contribute towards their repair and restoration, along with our partners in HLF.'

To find out more about the work of the HLF, visit the website.



(Image copyright Heritage Lottery Fund)