By Stuart McFarlane

THE first significant details for the proposed renovation of Dumbarton’s oldest building – which was once visited by Rabbie Burns – have been unveiled. 

The plans to transform the listed Glencairn House in Dumbarton – which has stood for almost 400 years – moved a step closer after plans were submitted for the internal revamp of the property.

Planning documents received by West Dunbartonshire Council shows that the ancient building is due to undergo a number of renovations including the demolition of its rear extension, the replacement of windows and roof repairs to make it watertight.

Future plans for the council-owned site in the town’s High Street recently underwent a public consultation, with the submissions due to be considered by planners over the coming months.

A West Dunbartonshire Council spokesman said: “Following the consultation process, a report outlining a number of suggestions for the future of Glencairn House is currently being prepared. This report will then go before a future meeting of the Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development Committee for a decision to be taken.”

A plaque commemorating the visit of poet Robbie Burns to the area in 1787, when he was made an honorary burgess and guild brother of the town, stands on the outside of the buildling. 

In recent years, the site has hosted a number of tenants, including being used as an office site by youth group Tullochan Trust, as well as most recently being used as a local credit union. 

Following the announcement of the refurbishment plans, the Reporter contacted the area’s newly elected councillors to get their views on what future the site should have going forward.

David McBride, Dumbarton ward councillor, said: “I’m delighted we are now beginning the process of bringing Glencairn House back into public use. Our recent consultation was warmly welcomed and many excellent responses have been received. Regeneration and investment in our town centre and riverside is beginning to take shape, it’s great to know Glencairn House will be part of the package.” 

SNP councillor Karen Conaghan said: “As a Dumbarton resident, I went along to the consultation earlier this year as I was really keen to see such an important and historic building brought back into use.

“Dumbarton has a wealth of history that we should be capitalising on to attract tourism to our town and I feel that Glencairn House should be a key part of this.

“Glencairn House occupies a very central location in Dumbarton High Street and could become a very public and positive focus for the people of the town. Having consulted with the people of the town, we now need to work to realise their vision for this important building.”

Her colleague Iain McLaren offered an idea of the site’s potential future use.

He said: “I’m very pleased that plans for the refurbishment of Glencairn House are progressing.  As the oldest building in West Dunbartonshire, it is a precious legacy that we have a duty to protect and maintain for future generations.

“Many great ideas for its use have been put forward by members of the public during the consultation phase, with a museum being a popular suggestion. I think somewhere to showcase our incredible history is sorely needed, and a museum could be an important attraction and source of revenue for the town.”