Heritage project launched in Coupar Angus

Aug 31 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

RESIDENTS in East Perthshire are being invited to turn their hands to age-old stone masonry skills.

Presided over by experts from the Scottish Lime Centre Trust, a 10-day course in Coupar Angus is set to revive a host of practical activities geared towards mastering the use of lime mortar.

Lessons in the little-practised craft will be held at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue from September 6–17.

Participants will work on repairing a length of boundary wall in the vicinity of the recently-regenerated Cumberland Barracks.

The Carlton Street structure dates back to the 18th Century and was given a new lease of life recently as part of the ongoing Townscape Heritage Initiative.

If successfully completed, those on the course may obtain a certificate in conservation masonry sanctioned by the Scottish Qualifications Authority.

Callum Petrie, of Perth and Kinross Council’s environment service – who are jointly organising the venture – said he hoped the imminent scheme would appeal to heritage-conscious locals.

He said: “The masonry workshop is primarily geared towards people who have an interest in learning a practical skill and wish to contribute to the ongoing regeneration of Coupar Angus.

“The course is suitable for those who are skilled at using construction tools and wish to broaden their experience and knowledge, as well as those who are relative beginners.

“It’s open to men and women living in Tayside, but priority will be given to applicants who live or work in the Coupar Angus area.”

A special award dubbed the ‘Crichton Lang memorial trowel’ will be presented to the individual who achieves the best results.

The newly-commissioned trophy bears the name of a late, celebrated local architect – who was said to be an early advocate of stone masonry and a staunch believer in retaining local buildings.

Although the course is free of charge, participants may be asked for a refundable deposit – designed to ensure applicants’ committment to the project.

For more information contact either Callum Petrie on 01738 475314, or Sarah Carruthers via e-mail on scarruthers@pkc.gov.uk.

Alternatively, anyone interested can call the Coupar Angus Regeneration Trust office on 01828 628 569.

Applicants must be over 16 and there are around a dozen spaces.