Mary Kirk, Burghead Road, Alves IV30 8FE

Property Summary

A unique opportunity to renovate an 1800s Church into a contemporary, luxurious residence. With full planning permission for a substantial (approx. 280 m sq), detached 3–4-bedroom home, that promotes the unique character of the original building, Mary Kirk offers the opportunity to live in a superb, rural location, just a few miles from the stunning beaches of the Moray Coast and vast woodlands of Roseisle, yet with easy access to the A96 and amenities of Elgin and Forres.

Planning permission ref: 22/01839/APP

Listed Building Consent : 22/01916/LBC

Extending to circa 0.6 acres, substantial gardens with mature trees sit to the rear of the property.

Mary Kirk sits in an enviable location within the school catchment area of Alves Primary and just minutes from the prestigious Gordonstoun private school. The tranquil location offers open views across the adjacent farmland with wide open skies where the Aurora Borealis can be viewed from the gardens.

(The area marked pink in the title plan extract shows the extent of the property. The gravestones to the front are maintained by Moray Council and are not on the property. Likewise the steadings shown in some of the photos are on the adjacent property and are not part of this sale).

Existing Architecture

The current structure is a long, narrow rectangular building with harled walls and a slate roof. Ashlar sandstone is used for the window and door surrounds, as well as the bellcote on the east gable. It is aligned approximately east-west at the north end of the graveyard.

The principle south elevation has an unusual, asymmetrical arrangement of windows with a small doorway at the west end. There are 7 round-arched window openings, which are a variety of widths and lengths. The doorway at the west end has a small round-arched window above.

The east gable of the church has a single round-arched window to the centre, which has been bricked up. Alongside, on the north side, is a fine 17th century carved stone monument with a Latin inscription. Above the doorway is a small round-arch window at gallery level. On the apex is a simple rectangular bellcote with a ball finial on top. The bell was removed to the current parish church in 1978. The west gable has a single round-arched window at gallery level. The north elevation is blank with no windows or other openings or features.

Proposed Home

Developed by Mantilla Home Design, the proposed renovation maintains the fabric of the original church while introducing accommodation to create a stunning 3/4 bed, detached home, with a double height open plan living/dining/kitchen with a further mezzanine living space. A pantry, linen cupboard and ample utility room provide accommodation for the running of the house.

The design retains and enhances the original character of the building through the use of wide, exposed beams throughout the lower floor, and the reinstatement of arched windows into the existing openings, with additional light being introduced through the use of Velux windows to the ceiling. A spacious front entrance porch has been designed with a wood and light design in the shape of a cross above, giving deference to the origins of the building.

A large car port with storage and an electrical vehicle charging point sits to the side.

History

“Built in 1769, Mary Kirk is believed to occupy the same site as earlier churches, which records show date back to the 13^th century. The church became disused in 1932 although it briefly housed members of the RAF in 1941 whilst they awaited the completion of their quarters at nearby RAF Kinloss. The village cemetery, or kirkyard, is still located at this church. A recent survey by the Moray Burial Ground Research Group found a buried stone dated 1571, one of the earliest found by the group so far.” (Wikipedia)

Location

Outdoor opportunities abound for all ages and interests. Just minutes away is the vast forest of Roseisle; ideal for cycling, running, walking and horse riding, and the beautiful white, sand beaches that stretch from Findhorn to Burghead. Golfing is available close by in both Forres and Kinloss. Watersport, including sailing and paddleboarding are available in the beautiful coastal village of Findhorn approximately 8 miles away and skiing is available in the Cairngorms approximately 35 miles away.

Approximately ten minutes’ walk, the local primary school is Alves Primary School, a highly regarded small, traditional primary school. Secondary education is provided in Forres with Elgin as an alternative. The prestigious private school, Gordonstoun, is a mere 8 miles away in Duffus. Alternative education in the Drumduan Private School is available in Forres.

Transport

A key differentiator for Mary Kirk, is the ability to access the A96, approximately half a mile away, providing a direct link between Aberdeen and Inverness. Inverness International airport at Dalcross is only 20 miles away and provides daily flights to London and continental Europe, with Aberdeen airport, only 76 miles away. There are reliable train links from Forres and Elgin to either city, with further train links to the South.