A landmark Perth church has been given thousands of pounds in the first stage of a project to carry out essential repairs.
St Matthew’s, an instantly recognisable feature of the Fair City skyline, is in need of an upgrade and the minister has called on parishioners to help fund the £1 million project.
The 143-year-old building has now gained initial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
Development funding of £7,500 has been awarded to help St Matthew’s progress plans to apply for a full grant at a later date.
Property and construction consultants Hardies have been contracted to project manage the work on behalf of the church.
The project aims to carry out essential conservation and repair work to assist in the building’s maintenance for the future.
An information programme is also planned to encourage city residents and visitors to access the building and enjoy its historic past and the artefacts contained within.
The Rev Scott Burton, minister at St Matthew’s, said the support would help to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of St Matthew’s, which was created by the merger of three other congregations.
He said: “We’re delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund places of worship grant scheme has given this support, helping us in our aim to open the past to the future during this 50th anniversary year of our union.
“These works are an essential part of the long-term plans to open the church building more fully to the community and to sustain it into the future for the benefit of all in the city.”
The John Honeyman building, with its 212ft steeple, is used in publicity for many of Perth’s businesses, voluntary groups and public authorities.
Its silhouette and outline is the current image utilised by Perth and Kinross Council to promote the Fair City.
St Matthew’s is also the home to four First World War battalion colours of The Black Watch, as well as to many memorials to the fallen.
It features stained glass from the original West Church and the three others Middle, Bridgend and Wilson Memorial which were united to form St Matthew’s in 1965.