A B-listed church on the Isle of Arran, described as a “rare opportunity” by the selling agents, has been placed on the market at £130,000. The red sandstone building, known as Bennecarrigan Church, dates back to 1894 and features a classic gothic style. It offers rural and sea views and could be converted into a one-of-a-kind home.
Condition and Development Potential
According to Arran Estate Agents, the church requires a “complete internal refurbishment,” although the sellers state that the structure itself is in a “functional condition” and offers “a rare development opportunity in a beautiful rural location.”
Planning approval was previously granted to convert Bennecarrigan Church into two residential dwellings. Although this permission has since lapsed, there is the option to re-apply or to turn the church into a single dwelling.
Architectural Features and Interior
Externally, the church features a roof clad with slates and classic cast iron rainwater goods. There are sandstone skews to both gables, while the original roof ventilator has been removed and leaded over. There is also a gable-mounted bell housing, though the bell itself was removed long ago.
Inside, the accommodation begins with an entrance vestibule that leads through to the main church nave. Built to fit as many as 400 worshippers, the nave has a spectacular triple lancet window and classic deeply inset windows on both sides.
The building features a timber hung floor, plaster and lath-lined walls, and a steeply sloping trussed roof. The ceiling height in the centre is around 6.55 metres. Next to the pulpit at the east end of the church is a doorway that leads through to the vestry, which includes a window and a blocked-off open fireplace, as well as a door outside.
Grounds and Additional Accommodation
Bennecarrigan Church sits within picturesque grounds that extend to around a quarter of an acre in total and are bordered by red sandstone walls all around. There is a vehicular gate with hard standing and parking to the Ross Road, as well as a pedestrian gate to the main A841.
Additionally, there is a self-contained caravan on the site that is included in the sale. The large static caravan, which is wind and water tight, offers a great opportunity for a self-build. It includes an open-plan lounge and kitchen area with a gas fire, as well as two bedrooms, a shower room, and a toilet.
Arran Estate Agents adds: “The Isle of Arran is a place where you can find a little bit of everything you'd ever want from a Scottish island; an ever-changing coastline, dramatic mountain peaks, sheltered beaches, verdant forests, great cultural festivals, a wealth of tasty local produce and even two whisky distilleries.”
More photographs of Bennecarrigan Church and further information about the property can be found on the Arran Estate Agents website.
