Fire breaks out at historic Dumbuck House Hotel in Dumbarton

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A fire has engulfed the derelict Dumbuck House Hotel in Dumbarton.The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that they were called to the Glasgow Road venue at 1.20am this morning, with the road remaining closed to traffic as firefighters battle the blaze.Three years ago, Devilla Property Services bought the iconic venue, which operated as a restaurant, bar and hotel before it shut down during the pandemic.Historic Environment Scotland (HES) last year removed the category B listing on the building, following an application from its owners - who lodged plans to partially demolish the building.The decision to de-list was taken despite more than 90 objections being submitted by residents.

HES stated that the applicant says there “is no possibility” of future reuse due to the current economic climate and that the fabric of the property is “now in a poor state” and will worsen through time.Last year members of West Dunbartonshire Council’s planning committee tasked local authority chiefs to write to Christina McKelvie, Minister for Culture, Europe and International Development, and the Chief Executive of Historic Environment Scotland expressing disappointment at the de-listing decision.They backed a report that slammed HES for the move, saying “This local significance and local opinions appear not to have been given much weight by Historic Environment Scotland in its assessment.”The building was built as Dumbuck House, in the early 19th century (between 1814 and 1829) as a mansion for the Geils family.Dumbarton councillor David McBride said he was “appalled” by the change to the listed status of the building was made. More to follow.