Feasibility and strategic studies support a wider, phased plan for the former kirk that combines science, learning, community use and links to Loch Ken.

Campaign to Save Maxwell's Kirk — Photo credit: Dr. Franziska Weir, children on photo Scotia Weir (7) and Finlay Weir (4)

The Parton community has launched a campaign to purchase the former Parton Kirk and begin its transformation into a community and science centre celebrating the life, work and continuing relevance of James Clerk Maxwell.

At a public meeting on 28 August 2026, the community agreed to proceed with plans to acquire the building. Parton Community Council has established a steering group, and supporters are working to secure the kirk before the deadline of 1 November 2026.

The proposal is about more than preserving a historic building. A 2023 feasibility study commissioned by Parton Community Council concluded that the project is distinctive and feasible, provided it is developed through a suitable charitable body, strong partnerships, sound business planning and a flexible mix of uses.

The study recommends moving beyond a conventional, static visitor-centre model. It proposes a living centre where science can be explored, discussed and practised alongside community activity, with universities and other institutions potentially using the building for meetings, project work, education and public engagement.

The emerging vision - James Clerk Maxwell Science and Community Centre - combines interpretation of Maxwell's legacy with science education, talks and workshops, community events and links to the landscape of Loch Ken. Potential future elements include flexible meeting and learning space, exhibitions, accessible visitor facilities and connections to walking, cycling and nature-based experiences. These possibilities require consultation, detailed design, permissions and a phased development plan.

"James Clerk Maxwell changed the way we understand the physical world, yet the community and landscape that shaped his life remain far less widely recognised than they deserve. Securing Parton Kirk would allow us to protect that heritage and create a living centre where people of every age can encounter Maxwell's remarkable story and be inspired by science." Parton Community Council

Maxwell, whose family home was at nearby Glenlair, is buried at Parton. His work on electromagnetism, light, colour and statistical physics helped lay the foundations of modern science and technology. A centre at Parton could connect this scientific heritage with present-day questions including energy, biodiversity and the relationship between science and the natural world.

A separate Strategic Context Assessment identifies Parton's position midway along the eastern shore of Loch Ken as an opportunity to support sustainable tourism, active travel, visitor management and longer stays in the area. It recommends considering the kirk as part of a connected regional offer rather than as an isolated attraction.

The campaign has received an encouraging early response. Within its first few days, almost 400 individuals and families had supported the initiative, and organisers reported positive feedback from within the community and further afield. Individuals and families in Parton have also pledged donations.

Support is now being sought from residents, scientists, universities, learned societies, heritage and environmental organisations, businesses and admirers of Maxwell's work. To contact the Parton Community Council regarding this project please use the email address info@partonkirk.com. As Parton Community Council does not have its own charity number, the crowdfunding appeal is being administered by its chair, Paul Hodson, Chair of the Parton Community Council, on behalf of the community.

The immediate priority is to secure the building. Any subsequent conversion would be developed in phases and would require updated surveys and costings, a detailed business plan, community consultation and the necessary heritage and planning approvals.

Support the campaign

JustGiving Campaign: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/savepartonkirk

Feasibility studies:‍www.glenkens.scot/reports-resources-archive/parton-kirk-reports ‍