Landmark church sale falls through
The sale of a historic church in Callander has fallen through after the charity attempting to purchase it walked away from the deal.
The Clanranald Trust moved in to St Kessog’s Church in early 2015 after the category B listed building was placed on the market for £100,000.
However, the deal to take over ownership from Stirling Council was held up over uncertainty about the ownership of the surrounding fixtures.
The church then suffered severe water damage to walls and floorboards following a burst pipe earlier this year.
Stirling Council, who own the building, this week confirmed that the sale will not be taking place.
A spokesperson said: “The council has been informed that the Clanranald Trust no longer wishes to proceed with the purchase of St Kessog’s Church and has formally withdrawn from the process.
“Local elected members have been notified and a meeting with councillors has been arranged to discuss the immediate future of the building and the best course of action.
“St Kessog’s is a key asset in Callander and Stirling Council is committed to engaging with the community to see it back in use as soon as possible.”
The Clanranald Trust has opted to move its operations from the town back to Duncarron, a full–scale replica of an early medieval fortified village in the Carron Valley.
Chief executive Charlie Allan said: “Initially it was fully intended that we would take over the church. The trustees just felt that it’s more in keeping with our aims and objectives of the project to move back to Duncarron but we have had a great time working in the local community in Callander.”
The trust had been forced out of St Kessog’s, establishing a base in Main Street, as work is taking place to repair the damage caused by the flood.
Trossachs and Teith councillor Martin Earl said: “I’m pleased that the position with St Kessog’s has been clarified.
“It’s now important that the future use of the building is carefully considered to ensure it brings maximum benefit to the town.”
St Kessog’s ceased operation as a church in 1985 and was purchased and converted by Stirling Council into a tourist information centre prior to being taken over by Clanranald Trust.
The grand opening of the Duncarron medieval village is due to take place in May next year.