Local MSP Fiona Hyslop has come out in support of the proposal for the Boghall Parish Church to become a listed building by Historic Environment Scotland.
The proposal to list the Boghall Parish Church is in large part due it’s unique and striking roof design.
Boghall Parish Church was built between 1963 and 1965 - featuring an unusual saddle shaped roof - it is a notable example of a post-war church due to odd yet innovative roof design that is very rare in Scotland.
The sculptural form of the swept roof gives the building its sculptural or ‘expressionist’ appearance - the official name for the roof design is a ‘hyperbolic paraboloid roof’.
These types of roof were favoured in the mid 60s as their sculptural appearance and engineering possibilities could be achieved at a relatively low cost, only requiring basic materials and finishes.
Its futuristic appearance reflected the Space Race and its influence on trends in fashion and design during this period.
Boghall was the second church in Scotland to have been built with this particular type of hyperbolic paraboloid roof, the first being Hamilton-Bardrainney in Port Glasgow (now demolished).
Their inherent strength also meant they were able to support their own weight, enabling large uninterrupted floor plans to be achieved.
As a result, they were often used for churches, exhibition buildings and halls - though they continue to be used today, few early examples remain across the UK.
The quality and ambition of the design of Boghall Church is unusual for a small, provincial church that was built for a newly established local authority estate.
Designation consultants found that Boghall Church ‘reflects the aspirations of the designers and of the Church of Scotland, but also the activity and optimism of a period which sought to make real improvements to the socio-economic fabric of Scotland through design and urban planning.’
Historic Environment Scotland have launched a public consultation to gather the community’s views on the potential listing of the building.
Fiona Hyslop, MSP for Linlithgow, commented: “The Boghall Parish Church is a beautiful building, and the roof is innovative and bold, and it deserves to be listed as a historic building in recognition of its special architectural and historic significance.
“The Boghall Parish Church deserves recognition not only for the beautiful building but for the work the parishioners do for the community and local people. They play an important role in the community and in supporting the people of Boghall.
“I hope the church is successful in becoming a listed building, and I am sure they will continue to be a cornerstone of the Boghall, and wider Bathgate, community.”
West Lothian locals can submit their views on the building becoming listed through the Historic Environment Scotland website: https://haveyoursay.historicenvironment.scot/heritage/designating-boghall-parish-church/
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