A £740,000 redevelopment project continues apace in St Andrew’s Church in Moffat to turn it into one of the region’s largest venues.
There’s been a hive of activity taking place behind the barriers over the last few weeks and church elders revealed there has been ‘significant progress’ on phase one that will bring vital improvements to the historic building.
Photographs published here show the extensive work that has been going on inside. The most visible change is the removal of the pews and the timber flooring and joists. With a new level concrete floor, the church will become much more inclusive and user-friendly, with space to manoeuvre wheelchairs and flexibility to configure the layout depending on activity.
In addition, the inefficient heating system, originally installed in the Victorian era, has been replaced with underfloor heating which is more economical and environmentally friendly.
Insulation is being added to the building too to further increase energy efficiency, while new accessible toilet facilities are being created as well.
To mark the end of the first phase of redevelopment, an open day will take place on August 19, when members of the public can drop in to see what has been achieved, and learn about what still needs to be done as part of phase two, which includes floor coverings, chairs and audio visual equipment.
A church spokesperson said this week: “Expected to cost around £740,000 in total, the redevelopment is essential both to keep this iconic structure safe, warm and comfortable for the years to come, and to broaden the church’s use.
“Upgrading in keeping with modern requirements will mean that the building can be used all week long and all year round by the whole community, alongside retaining its role as an important place of worship for many. A number of concerts and fundraisers held successfully before the temporary closure drew in great support, and the intention is for the church to continue to expand its programme of community events, as well as welcoming external organisers and individuals to hire the space.
“Once reopened, the St Andrew’s Church building will be one of the largest venues in South-West Scotland, and it is hoped that this will allow those living in and visiting Moffat and the surrounding areas to enjoy events of a size not previously possible in the town.”
They have shared mock-ups showing some of the possible uses of the redeveloped building, which range from exhibitions, to conferences, to indoor activities.
It is also hoped that with the church interior becoming more flexible, more couples will choose to hold their wedding ceremony there.
To date, St Andrew’s has invested £400,000 of its own funds, including a considerable legacy, and raised £45,000 from members’ donations and fundraising events. This is in addition to grants of £215,000 as well.
However, there is still a shortfall of approximately £80,000 to enable phase two to go ahead and complete the overall project and the church would be extremely grateful for the community’s continued support, Donations can be made by card, cheque or bank transfer.
In addition, they will be launching the opportunity to sponsor a chair in memory of a loved one in the coming months.
The latest news and donation details can be found on the church website at www.standrewsmoffat.org/redevelopment-project.
