It has been an extraordinary week for the team at W.H. Kirkwood. We are thrilled to announce that the Carntyne Parish Church repair project has been named the Scottish winner of the prestigious John Betjeman Award at the SPAB (Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings) Heritage Awards.
The award was presented on stage to Rebecca, representing the project’s success, who accepted the iconic “winning brick”—a symbol of excellence in the conservation of historic places of worship.
Excellence in Heritage Conservation
Located in the East End of Glasgow, Carntyne Parish Church is a building of significant local character. Our role as the main contractor was to lead a sensitive and comprehensive repair programme to ensure the structure remains sound and watertight for future generations.
The award-winning works included:
- Extensive Roof Repairs: A major overhaul of the slate roof, including the full replacement of all lead flashings.
- Structural Masonry: Detailed brick and stone repointing to restore the external fabric.
- Joinery Restoration: Expert window repairs to preserve the building’s original aesthetic while improving its integrity.
A Week of Celebration
This recognition from SPAB marks our second major award in a single week, highlighting the consistent standard of quality our team brings to every site. We were delighted to work alongside specialized partners, including Ferguson & Kellock, whose expert roofing work was instrumental in achieving this result.
The John Betjeman Award specifically looks for projects that respect the original character of the building while using traditional materials and techniques. Winning this award is a testament to the skill of our tradespeople and our commitment to the “SPAB approach” of conservative repair.
Preserving Glasgow’s Architectural History
At W.H. Kirkwood, we take great pride in our heritage portfolio. Seeing a project in Glasgow’s East End receive national recognition is a proud moment for us and the local community. Carntyne Parish Church is now fully restored and ready to continue its service as a vital community landmark.