Historic Glasgow church will undergo 'vital' upgrades

The boost will support the A-listed Old Govan Church, which sits on the banks of the River Clyde, by enabling the installation of a new river source heat pump.

Once it is installed, the pump will reduce carbon emissions by 93% and save 20% in energy costs at the church.

The fund was awarded as part of SP Energy Networks' Net Zero Fund, which is designed to support vulnerable communities across Scotland.

Scott Mathieson, network planning and regulation director at SP Energy Networks, said: “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.”

The maintenance and upkeep of the old church is handled by Govan Heritage Trust, who took over the ownership in 2007 after it closed.

It has become recognised by archaeologists as one of the most important historic sites in Glasgow since the discovery of early medieval stones in 1855, with many dating back to the Viking era. 

After several stones were accidentally destroyed in the 1980s when they were mistaken for debris during the demolition of a neighbouring shipyard, the community has focused on maintaining and restoring the site.

Current plans for the church include transforming it into a museum to showcase the history of the site, and the Trust hopes that it will welcome over 14,000 visitors each year. 

The renovations will also offer a meeting space for local organisations and charities supporting the elderly, refugees and local schools.

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."