Developer Wemyss Properties has been given the go-ahead to build 29 new flats on the former Hillhead Baptist Church building in Glasgow’s West End
Working in partnership with church members, Wemyss Properties is looking to retain the façade of the former Hillhead Baptist Church.
The main sanctuary has been empty for almost two decades, as it was considered unsafe to continue to occupy. Then in 2016, the congregation took the decision to vacate The Tryst which was also beginning to deteriorate.
Church services are currently held in a nearby hotel.
The new one, two and three-bedroom apartments, designed by EMA Architects, will be housed in a five-level contemporary extension behind a restored façade, using sympathetic materials.
‘Sustainable, stylish redevelopment’
Matthew Atton, managing director of Wemyss Properties, commented: “We are delighted to secure detailed planning permission for this exciting development.
“We have been working with the trustees and the congregation of Hillhead Baptist Church now for nearly three years to try and retain the existing façade, but more importantly, to provide the church with a new facility that will ensure its presence in the community for many more generations.
“The redevelopment will also provide sustainable, stylish and quality homes, positioned in a much sought-after location, and close to a wealth of amenities, including shops, cafes, galleries and parks.”
The Rev Catriona Gorton, minister of Hillhead Baptist Church, said: “The church has worked for many years to find a solution which would safeguard this much-loved building, so it’s a huge relief to get the go-ahead for this sensitive scheme.
“Not only will it protect this historic building, it will also ensure its future as a home for our congregation, and as a significant, and much needed, community hub for Hillhead and the surrounding area.”
Subject to understanding the after-effects of the current Covid-19 crisis, it is anticipated that work will start on the redevelopment of Hillhead Baptist Church in 2021.
