Bankfoot Church nominated for environmental award

Dec 1 2009 by Andrew Welsh, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

SUPPORTERS of a Perthshire church development were praying for success yesterday after the building was short-listed for a top environmental accolade.

In recognition of its ultra-low carbon footprint, the state-of-the-art Bankfoot Church has been nominated for a prestigious Scottish Renewables Green Energy Award.

The building, which has replaced the parish’s former church that was devastated by fire in 2004, is one of the candidates in the best community initiative category.

Bankfoot Church Centre, which hosts a wide range of grassroots activities and events, was officially opened in October, 2008.

Its features include a Glulam wood frame, under-floor thermal slab heating and a wind generator.

Yesterday, the church’s Rev Iain McFadzean said he was delighted to learn of the centre’s nomination.

“The use of renewable energy in our new centre has allowed its sustainable and affordable use as a focus for the whole community,” he declared.

“The building is able to be open for up to 16 hours a day, seven days a week, and always has a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

“The use of renewables within the building has inspired many visitors to consider similar applications in their own situations and has encouraged every generation of our own community to consider their impact on the environment.

“It is a privilege to have the use of such an inspiring building and to use it to encourage others.”