A decision on whether to close a Renfrewshire church and well-used activity hall has been suspended following an outcry at the potential loss of the facility from the community.
The Paisley Daily Express reported in November that the future of Renfrew North Parish Church was in doubt after “astonishing” plans for the place of worship to be closed were revealed.
The Church of Scotland plans to reduce the number of ministers in the Clyde Presbytery from 60 to 40 and as a result various churches across the country are to close, with Renfrew North being one of those earmarked for closure.
A final decision on whether the closure will go ahead was due to be made on Tuesday, November 22.
However, following objections from Reverend Philip Wallace of Renfrew North Parish Church, who set up a petition to keep the church open, and others, a decision has been postponed in order to allow the Church of Scotland some time to reflect on the strength of feeling in the community about the potential closure.
Philip explained: “Just prior to the Presbytery meeting on November 22, we were informed that, due to the number of churches that were wishing to object to the elements of the plan that related to them (ourselves included), there would be no decision made at that meeting.
“Instead, the meeting listened to all the objections, and agreed that there would be a period of further consultation, which would culminate in a revised draft plan which would be issued in January.
“Then there would be a Presbytery meeting on Saturday, February 4, at which a final decision would be made. So, the wait continues!”
The Save Renfrew North petition has now had nearly 1,800 signatures online, a show of support for the venue, which welcomes around 900 people through its doors each week, who attend to worship or one of the many activities and clubs that take place there seven days a week.
With such strong opposition to the plans, a Church of Scotland Clyde Presbytery planning group is to meet with the Kirk Session at Renfrew North, to further discuss the objections they have to the plan.
Rev Wallace added: “The community response has been very supportive – and it is heartening to know that the community would miss our building and all that takes place in it.
"Our online petition has reached nearly 1,800 names and people are still continuing to sign. After signing the petition, people have left messages of support and shared their stories and memories of the organisations that they attended at the church.
“We will continue to make the case for remaining open, and await the new draft plan in January.”
Those wishing to express their support for the campaign to save Renfrew North Parish Church can find out more information about how to do so by visiting www.renfrewnorth.org.uk
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