Black Isle Church of Scotland plans for ‘multipurpose venue’ to help ‘futureproof’ it; application lodged with Highland Council
A historic 200-year-old church could be turned into a "multipurpose venue" to help "futureproof" it and ensure it maintains its role at the heart of the community.
The Church of Scotland has lodged a planning application with Highland Council which is seeking to carry out internal modifications at Rosemarkie Church on the Black Isle.
There would also be some external renovations to reverse some later modifications that were made to the B-listed building, which dates back to 1821.
Outlining its plans, the Church of Scotland explained that the changes are intended to cement its place as their "primary place of worship for the Black Isle".
A supporting statement lodged by the Church of Scotland's design agents, HRIMunro Architecture, said: "The primary objective of this project is to 'futureproof' the building by creating a multipurpose venue while reducing its overall carbon footprint, all without compromising its historical character."
They continued: "This proposal follows the Church of Scotland's decision to retain Rosemarkie Church as the primary place of worship for the Black Isle. The intention is to serve the community by offering flexible spaces for worship, events, performances, classes, clubs, and participatory activities.
"These requirements necessitate modern facilities while preserving the church's historic character. The proposals adopt a fabric-first approach to ensure the building's longevity."
Changes inside the church include the removal of the existing pews to "create a flexible ground-floor space suitable for various uses".
Lightweight, stackable of collapsible furniture will replace it, and will be stored away until required for worship or other purposes.
The gallery would remain untouched "with redecorated white walls to emphasise openness".
The pulpit's "historic integrity" would be preserved, although the stairs to it will be adjusted by reducing the top landing's width to "address safety concerns".
Elsewhere, the vestry would be repurposed as a heat source plant room, and the 'back of house' areas of the church building will be reorganised to accommodate new kitchen, toilet, and storage facilities, while also improving access to the sanctuary and graveyards.
Modifications would also be made to insulate floors and the roof and transition to a heat pump=based heating system. All lighting would also be converted to LEDs.
Secondary internal glazing would also be installed at all windows to reduce heat loss.
Externally, the roof will be repaired, guttering renewed and new gully traps installed.
Areas of deteriorating stonework would be repaired and repointed.
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