Assurance wanted on old clock
Historic Environment Scotland has recommended church bosses explain exactly what they have in store for a clock “of significant historical interest” they want to remove from Redgorton and Stanley Parish Church.
The body has advised Perth and Kinross Council to request further information from the Church of Scotland (CoS) about its proposal to remove the 170-year-old clock before it considers granting consent for the move.
CoS has said it wants to take the clock out of the B-listed building “for its own protection” then have it repaired by specialists and put on public display.
However, HES wants to know precisely where it is going to end up.
HES has told PKC: “We understand that the clock mechanism at Stanley Church is one of only two ‘Alpha’ turret clocks designed by Richard Roberts and built by Sharp, Roberts and Co in Manchester.
“After being displayed at the 1851 Great Exhibition, it was installed in Stanley Church which [was] built in 1828 as a chapel of ease for Stanley Mill.
“The application does not include information which explains the reason for removing the clock mechanism, how much of the historic machinery it is intended to remove, and where it will be relocated to.
“Legislation and policy that govern the alteration of listed buildings presume in favour of preserving any features which are integral to their special architectural or historic interest.
“In the absence of this information our preference is that the clock mechanism should remain within the church until the future of the building becomes clearer.
“At present, our view is that the only clear justification for removal of the mechanism would be because it is at risk of loss or significant damage due to the condition of the church building.
“If so, we recommend that information is supplied in support of this reasoning. If not, we recommend that the clock is retained within the building until plans for its future becomes clear.
“If it is not possible to retain the clock in its current location we would appreciate early discussion with the council and the church on its relocation and display.”