You could own a Gothic church
St James’ is on the market for just £125,000
A whole Paisley church and its grounds is on the market for the price of a two-bed flat.
Iconic St James’ Church in the town’s Underwood Road is up for grabs at offers over £125,000.
Property agents rightmove have listed the kirk, known as Paisley’s mini-cathedral, as a heaven sent opportunity for property developers.
The estate agent says: “This substantial, Gothic style church with steeple was constructed during the 1880’s.
“A large, integrated church hall is situated to the rear. A single storey extension has been added to the hall, providing a smaller hall, meeting rooms and toilet facilities.
“Internally, the church is very striking in its appearance, with a wonderful nave and chancel, with organ still in situ.
“Benefiting from natural light, provided by the stain glass windows, the ground floor provides a large space for seating, with a gallery above the entrance.
“To the rear of the church is the bright and spacious church hall which incorporates a stage.
“Externally, there are well-maintained grounds with a single track drive providing access to the car park which lies to the eastside of the buildings. There is currently space for 13 cars.”
The B-listed church was forced to close due to dwindling attendance and spiralling costs, with many of the congregation moving to the Oakshaw Trinity Church.
The Express recently revealed that community activist Andy Doyle was behind a move to save the church and keep it open, but the project fell through.
St James’ Church, which has a 200ft-high spire, is an architectural gem, built in the early French Gothic style and dates back to 1884 when it was gifted, in large part, by thread-mill magnate Sir Peter Coats.
The building also possesses stunning stained glass windows dating from 1904, a ‘Father Willis’ pipe organ, and an architecturally important font.
It also housed the oldest set of handbells in Scotland, dating back to the Victorian era.
The church’s cultural significance in the life of Paisley has also been huge.
St James’ closed in May 2016 after more than 130 years serving the community as a special place of worship, weddings and goodbyes.
Former Paisley councillor Brian Lawson quipped: “For that price you could probably start your own religion.”
Those interested in viewing the property are urged to contact the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh.