A HISTORIC church near Loch Lomond is set to undergo repair work this year.

The Kilmaronock Old Kirk Trust (KOKT) had their application approved to carry out the work on the former Kilmaronock Church near Gartocharn, five years after it was closed by the Church of Scotland.

Previously the Reporter wrote that the trust had secured financial support, as well as donations from local residents, to enable it to buy the property in order to turn it onto a community hub.

The decision to carry out repair works on the building were approved in a full council meeting on December 22.

Councillor Sally Page, who represents the Lomond area, told the Reporter: “A large group of hard working people have taken the project forward and successfully brought the building into community ownership.

“Kilmaronock Old Kirk has wonderful acoustics and an organ that is in good shape and the first of many Community events was a successful concert in November for Saint Cecilia, patron saint of music.

“Community ownership requires dedication, an ability to navigate the myriad of application forms and of course once a purchase is made, that is only the beginning.

“Running a building and keeping it wind and water tight is a huge commitment; the communities of Gartocharn, Croftamie and Drymen are the beneficiaries but also have a long-term responsibility.”

The works include replacing the slate roof, repairs to bellcot, dismantling and rebuilding the chimney stack, repointing, removal and replacement of concrete steps and handrail on north elevation, removal of pews, and other repairs and alterations.

The community organisation wants to develop the building as a sustainable, multi-use community meeting space, an arts venue, and heritage centre, and are currently engaging in necessary works to the building as well as fund-raising.

An adjacent field will be developed as a natural burial ground and outdoor recreational space while the building itself is developed, with nearly £150,000 having been conditionally pledged to support the project.

A spokesperson from KOKT said: “We look forward to being able to carry out these works during 2022."

visit kilmaronockold kirk.org.uk.