Historic Catholic Site in Edinburgh to Be Sold
A historic site that has been under the ownership of the Catholic Church in Scotland since 1834 is set to be sold due to the high costs of maintenance.
The Gillis Centre Complex in Edinburgh will be placed on the market by the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh in September.
Archbishop Leo Cushley explained that the decision followed an extensive review process, which determined that further investment in the site would not represent the best use of resources.
The site, located in Marchmont and comprising an A-listed neo-Norman chapel along with other B-listed buildings, will continue to host church events until the sale is completed.
The property was acquired by the Catholic Church when Bishop James Gillis purchased it in 1834.
In the same year, St Margaret's Convent and School opened on the site, serving as an educational institution and residence for nuns for 152 years until 1986, when Gillis College, a seminary, was established.
In 1993, the buildings became the offices of the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.
Given the complexity and sensitivity surrounding the sale, the process is expected to take approximately two years.
Archdiocese's Stewardship and Future Plans
Archbishop Cushley stated that the trustees have a responsibility to ensure that resources are allocated in support of the Archdiocese's charitable objectives.
"The Gillis Centre holds historical, spiritual and personal significance for many clergy and people across the Archdiocese and beyond as a place of formation, prayer, administration, education and encounter, so I ask for your prayers as we undertake this next chapter together."
He emphasized that the trustees have responded thoughtfully and responsibly in managing the Archdiocese’s resources and determining the best way to support their mission.
Fr Jeremy Milne, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, also acknowledged the centre’s importance to the Church.
"We will now work to support the sale process and will relocate to suitable alternative premises in Edinburgh in due course. Clergy and parishioners will be updated throughout this process,"he added.
Architectural and Historical Significance
The entire site includes the A-listed chapel and conventual buildings, which feature a dairy, sundial gatepiers, and boundary walls designed by James Gillespie Graham in 1835.
In 1855, St Margaret's Tower along with additional gatepiers and walls were constructed and remain visible today from Strathearn Road.
St Margaret's was notable for being the first religious house established in Scotland since the Reformation in 1560.
As the sale approaches, further information about potential new owners will be provided. However, the Church has noted that the A- and B-listed buildings on the site are protected under planning law and must be maintained unless a new owner obtains listed building consent.
A spokesperson for the Archdiocese commented:
"While it is too early to comment on the future ownership or use of the site, I would like to assure you that the process will be handled with great care and sensitivity. We are mindful of the site's historical importance and the interests of local residents, and these considerations will inform our approach as the sale progresses."
