Posted Thursday 27 October 2011
The Rev Richardson continues “It is disheartening for the congregation who have spent so much in recent years to ensure St John’s can offer a building fit for church and community purpose in the 21st century. Over the past couple of years, St John’s has been the victim of several incidents of lead theft. We continue to work with the Police in stepping up security and vigilance. We have also been encouraged by the support from both the MP Margaret Curran and MSP John Mason in addressing this serious issue”
Although St John’s has insurance cover, the insurance will only cover a maximum of £5,000 for lead theft each year. The costs of the external repairs for the theft in March was in excess of £6,500 and this does not include costs for internal repairs which will need to be carried out when the walls are dry again.
St John’s Church is not alone in falling victim to lead theft. At least 15 churches of all denominations in the Glasgow area have had lead stolen from their roofs over the past 3 months, and particularly in the last 2 weeks. Rebecca Cadie, Architect for the Diocese of Glasgow and Galloway explains “The damage caused by the theft of lead can cost thousands of pounds to remedy yet the scrap value of lead is small in comparison. Many churches are struggling with limited financial resources and are appalled that the protection against theft and repairs have to be a priority. We are currently asking for guidance from Historic Scotland on appropriate alternative materials to use in place of lead in vulnerable locations on listed buildings. Churches are part of their local communities and these attacks are a crime against the community. We would urge anyone who sees unusual roof-top activity to contact the police urgently.”
The congregation of St John’s is now looking at replacing the lead from its roof with reinforced bitumen as a lead-free alternative, but the drain on financial resources caused by the recurring thefts will be a financial challenge for the congregation.
Category: Property Action Network
