Work begins on Trinity Church

Nov 23 2012 by Lorraine Howard, Irvine Herald

Irvine’s iconic Trinity Church will be given a £700,000 makeover which will see the rejuvenation of the main church and hall, along with conservation work on the tower and spire.

The main phase of the work began on Monday and is expected to be completed by September next year.

During the work, access to and from the site will be made via both Bridgegate and Kirkgate.

It’s the latest round of work being carried out by the Irvine Bay Regeneration Company in Irvine’s town centre.

But Irvine Bay say efforts will be made to ensure the work has a minimal impact on surrounding properties and shoppers.

The project, supported by Historic Scotland, Irvine Bay Regeneration Company and North Ayrshire Council, is part of the plans to regenerate the town centre and boost the local economy.

Councillor Marie Burns, cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, said:

“Trinity Church is one of Irvine’s most important landmarks.

“It has a big role to play in the rejuvenation of the wider town centre.”

She added: “One of the key aims of the town centre programme is the retention of historical buildings like Trinity Church and the Townhouse to protect the heritage of the town and complement a modern and attractive town centre.”

Ranald MacInnes of Historic Scotland said: “We are delighted to support and see the progress that is being made on the redevelopment of Trinity Church.”

He went on: “I recently visited the site and was impressed to see the wider programme of work that is being undertaken to regenerate the town centre.

“It will be wonderful to see it taking shape in the months to come.

“I am confident that the re-use of the church can play an important role in helping secure the town’s future, especially the town centre.”