The former Reid Memorial Church in Edinburgh could be purchased from the Church of Scotland in a community buyout.
A local group has been set up to explore the possibility of buying the Category A-listed building on West Savile Terrace.
The Reid for the Community will hold its first meeting on Sunday October 25 at 4pm in the church’s Large Hall.
“The Church of Scotland is planning to put the Reid on the open market. We want the community to have a say in its future,” the group said on social media.
“A new local group, The Reid for the Community, is asking one question: Should the Reid be owned and run by the community?" the group went on to state.
"A building for music, arts, clubs, events for every generation, owned by and run for the people who live here.
“Nothing is decided. That's why we need you. Tell us what this area is missing, ask the hard questions, and help decide the Reid's future before someone else does.”
Reid Memorial Church, which opened in 1928, was commissioned by William Crambe Reid in memory of his father and designed by Leslie Grahame Thomson in the neo-perpendicular style.
The congregation at Reid Memorial united with Marchmont St Giles Church in January 2026, forming the new Blackford and Grange Parish Church.
The MP for Edinburgh South, Ian Murray, has thrown his support behind the group.
“Following the Church of Scotland's decision to sell the Reid Memorial Church, Edinburgh, a group of residents are looking into the possibility of a community buy out,” he said on Facebook.
“Currently the site hosts a number of activities including the local Scouts, community yoga, and mother and toddler sessions. A community buy out would protect these and offer other opportunities for local groups.
“It's a fantastic initiative, well worth attending on Sunday if you are able to.”
Approached for comment, a Church of Scotland spokesman said: "While the Church of Scotland welcomes interest from community groups in church buildings which are no longer required for worship, as a charity, the General Trustees, and local kirk sessions, are under a legal obligation to get the best value for any asset sold.
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"Community groups are welcome to submit an offer alongside any interested parties once the property is offered for sale on the open market," the spokesperson added.
"The General Trustees are not necessarily obliged to accept the highest offer in every circumstance, and where there are competing proposals, factors including the potential for continued community access and public use of the building, can be taken into account.
"While each case must be considered on its own merits, a proposal that enables the building to remain accessible to the local community may be viewed sympathetically."
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