IMPORTANT UPDATE ON FUTURE PLANS.....

On Sunday 4th January 2026, after the morning service, there will be a special meeting of the congregation to hear proposals about the future plans for our buildings options.

The service will be shorter than usual to allow for the meeting to take place.

Please see the following details for more information:

The Future of Neilston Parish Church: Update and Next Steps

Background

It has been several months since we first communicated our thoughts regarding the future of Neilston Parish Church within the framework of the Presbytery Plan. As previously highlighted, it became apparent that maintaining and supporting both the church building and the halls on a long-term basis is not sustainable. Consequently, it is necessary for us to relinquish at least one of these buildings, and we have been tasked with justifying the continuation of a physical church presence in Neilston.

Facilities Development Group Progress

Our Facilities Development Group (FDG) has engaged in numerous discussions with Presbytery representatives and architects to undertake a comprehensive Feasibility Study. The objective has been to determine the most viable path forward for our church facilities. The architects have presented us with a total of ten proposals: four options for redeveloping the existing church building and six options focused on redeveloping the halls buildings.

The architects’ brief required them to identify solutions that would allow us to establish a multi-functional and adaptable space for worship and community use, all within a single building. Any chosen solution must comply with current building regulations, satisfy various legislative requirements, and serve as a fit-for-purpose facility for both church and community activities, ensuring Neilston Parish Church remains at the heart of village life.

Review and Shortlisting of Options

The Kirk Session has carefully reviewed the ten options provided by the architects. In order to ensure that the final proposal is both practical and financially achievable, the number of options has been narrowed down. This selective process aims to focus our efforts on developing a workable and affordable plan for the future of our church facilities.

Invitation to Special Meeting

To keep everyone informed and involved, we are inviting all members, adherents, and friends of Neilston Parish Church to a special meeting on Sunday, 4th January 2026, following the morning service. The service will commence at the usual time of 11:00am and will be shortened to allow ample time for the meeting.

During this meeting, we will present the preferred options that remain under consideration and provide additional information regarding the options that have been ruled out. The Kirk Session will listen carefully to the congregation’s feedback on the proposed options, and further discussions will take place before any final decisions are reached.

Next Steps and Future Planning

After the congregation’s input has been considered, we will seek approval from Presbytery and begin planning how to raise the necessary funds to turn our chosen vision into reality.

It is important to note that, regardless of which option is ultimately selected, and pending the required approvals and planning permissions, the redevelopment work is expected to span several months and is unlikely to be completed for approximately three years.

We strongly encourage all those who care about the future of Neilston Parish Church to attend the morning service and stay for the special meeting on 4th January 2026, so that your views can be heard and considered as we move forward together.  If you have any queries, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Have a nice Christmas to all

Jim Renfrew, Session Clerk