Centuries of use, combined with environmental conditions and limited maintenance, have resulted in areas of deterioration that now require careful intervention. The proposed conservation works are fundamental to ensuring the building’s long term future, ensuring that its structure, fabric and historic character are stabilised, repaired and protected for continued use.

Fabric Repairs:

Fabric repair works are essential to preserving the condition of the Kirk and preventing further deterioration of the building. Over time, water ingress and general weathering have caused damage to areas of stonework, timber and internal finishes, making these repairs a key priority within the wider refurbishment project. The proposed works will address issues including water ingress within several areas of the church which have resulted in damp stonework and areas affected by wet rot and woodworm. Additional works will include clearing and repairing gutters and downpipes, carrying out local stone repairs and repointing, and addressing the sources of water ingress throughout the building. Other areas of concerns include the tower as well as St John’s Chapel.

Tower Repairs:

Within the tower and spire, there are significant areas of water ingress and damp stonework which require further investigation to allow appropriate repair works to be undertaken. These repairs are essential to prevent further deterioration of the historic stonework and fabric of the building.

St John’s Chapel Repairs:

Similarly the St John’s Chapel located within the Drum Aisle has areas of damps stonework internally, where defective drainage has allowed water to penetrate parts of the structure. The defective drainage is in need on repair. Once repair internal stonework required repairs.

Fabric Maintenance:

Once all urgent fabric repair works have been carried out, regular fabric maintenance is essential to protecting the condition of the Kirk and preventing avoidable deterioration over time. Like many historic buildings, ongoing care and routine inspections are necessary to ensure small issues are identified and addressed before they develop into more significant and costly repairs.The proposed maintenance will include works to be carried out twice per year, focusing on key areas of the building including gutters, downpipes, flat roofs and stained glass windows. These elements play a vital role in managing rainwater, protecting the building from damp and water ingress, and preserving important historic features within the Kirk. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the stained glass windows will also help protect their condition and appearance for the future.