PLANS have been submitted for a new purpose-built museum in Luss.

An application for planning permission has been submitted to the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park for relocation of the Clan Colquhoun Museum.

James and Jan Pearson run the museum which is currently based at Shore Cottage in Luss.

Hundreds of visitors attend the clan museum each week, with several using a genealogy service to trace their ancestors and to find out more about the Colquhouns.

However, the new museum will offer more history about Luss, as well as the current clan ancestry, if planning permission is approved.

Mr Pearson said planning permission was previously granted to Luss Estates to build a house on the site, but they have now given permission to the Pearson’s to lease the ground.

Ms Pearson told the Reporter: “It’s a purpose-built museum, but to all intents and purposes it looks just like one of the cottages. Luss Estates will lease the land to us and then we will build the museum.

“The current museum has been stowed out, we have up to 100 people a day – sometimes more. It’s doing really well, we are pleased.” She said that they were starting to fundraise now to secure money to build the new museum.

She added: “We have a collection in the museum, because it’s free to get in some people donate. The new one will be able to let us focus on Luss, the surrounding area and the history, as well as the clan.

“Everyone seems supportive, it’s nice that we are getting people in from the local area – Helensburgh, Dumbarton, Alexandria, Glasgow, because that’s what we want as well as the international visitors.

“Luss is booming at the minute.” The current cottage which houses the museum will be transformed back into a 17th century dwelling, so people can see what houses in the village used to look like.

Ms Pearson said: “Shore Cottage floods every winter, and there’s no way to stop it. That’s why we have to close during those months, only open for Father Christmas. The new museum will be built in the back garden area, but up the hill so it won’t flood.” Ian MacEachern, convener of Luss and Arden Community Council, said: “I think it’s an excellent idea, quite a lot of people come back here to trace their ancestors.

“I’d be all for it, I think it’s a great idea. I’m quite sure people will support it.” To view the application, visit the national park’s planning website and use the reference: 2015/0257/LBC.