“What if these walls could talk?” they might tell a tale of architectural ambition and community spirit, all centered here at St Martin’s RC Church. This church has a story etched in concrete and brick.
St Martin’s RC Church was completed in 1961. Gillespie, Kidd and Coia were the architects. Their vision was bold. They used concrete and facing brick. Copper roofs topped off this modern design.
The church’s design is striking. It has a trapezoidal plan. The apse contains the altar. Small, irregularly placed windows dot the walls. Colored glass fills these windows. The main light comes from the roof. It tapers down from the apse. The eaves band is deep and concrete.
But St Martin’s RC Church is more than just architecture. It’s a place of community. The presbytery, located to the north, mirrors the church’s design. It features two stories and a basement. The building is set into the hillside. A monopitch roof covers it. Irregular rectilinear glazing marks its Dutch style. Vaulted concrete ceilings add to its unique character.
The site’s sloping nature presented challenges. Extensive stairways were needed. Concrete with steel rails provided access. A ramped roadway led to the car park. The hard landscaping features lines and granite setts.
Sadly, St Martin’s RC Church closed in November 2010. The congregation merged with neighboring parishes. Despite its closure, there have been efforts to repurpose the building.
In 2013, there was an ambition to convert St Martin’s RC Church and its surroundings. The plan was for a BMX bike center. The Cathkin Braes Mountain Bike and Activity Centre Feasibility Study explored this option. Historic Scotland’s Building Repair Fund granted funds towards the conversion. Glasgow City Council also approved funding.
However, the project stalled in 2018. The end user’s business plan proved unsustainable. The building was put up for sale.
Today, the former St Martin’s RC Church faces challenges. The building’s condition has deteriorated. Localized water penetration damages the structure. Render is failing. Brickwork is in poor condition. Rainwater disposal is blocked. Vegetation encroaches.
Yet, St Martin’s RC Church remains. It stands as a testament to architectural vision. It also stands as a testament to community spirit. Perhaps one day, this building will find new life. It could become a vibrant part of Castlemilk once more. Until then, we can admire its unique design. We can also remember its history.