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Discussion on NH1784

"An historic Wester Ross church has been declared 'unnecessary' by the Church of Scotland and is to be put up for sale. 

"Around 60 people attended a public meeting to discuss the future of Clachan Church ... the meeting heard that the Clachan congregation of between six and twelve was too small for the [congregational] board to continue to supply a minister - currently the charge is vacant - or fund Clachan's modest running costs, let alone repairs. 

"The board added that the Trustees of the Church of Scotland would not pay for any repairs and intended to place the church on the market in January 2017.  If it does not sell ... they will pay to have the roof taken off to make it a 'safe ruin'. 

"Congregation member Peter Newling spoke for many when he described the important place the church occupies in the community, describing the 800-year history of the site and the cemetery which surrounds it.  He said: 'The community is the true owner of the building - the Church of Scotland is the custodian on behalf of the people and should bear this in mind.' 

"He added that the population in the immediate area had doubled in recent years and added to applause: 'We will bitterly regret losing a building which is now, and will continue to be, useful to the community.' 

"Sarah Mackenzie, another Clachan regular, also spoke in support of keeping Clachan church as a place for both church and community purposes ... She added: 'Surely the community should be given preferential treatment if it comes to selling?' "