Scone’s historic Old Church is set to close its doors after more than 200 years of welcoming worship.
The unification of the congregations at Scone Old and Scone New has long been on the cards. However, with members unable to decide where they would meet, the decision was finally put to the Church of Scotland.
It has now decided that the B-listed Scone New, which dates back to 1887, will become the home for the village’s congregation.
As a result, the picturesque B-listed Scone Old is set to be taken out of use, much to the disappointment of those who visit.
Its much-loved minister Bruce Thomson retired in February 2010 after 27 years in the post.
A spokesman for the Church of Scotland said, “By mutual consent the two congregations agreed to the arbitration process. The panel of arbiters decided that Scone New should be the place of worship for the united congregation.
“As all buildings are being retained for determination of use by the united congregation, the panel is hopeful that the obvious talents, energy and commitment within both churches will be used to determine a creative and respectful alternative use for the sanctuary in Scone Old.
“We appreciate people will have strong feelings on the matter and both session clerks have been sent a document explaining the decision.”