An agent for The Burns Globe Inn Ltd has lodged plans with Dumfries and Galloway Council to create a Robert Burns visitor centre, museum exhibition and conference centre within The Bakehouse.
Located next to the famous Globe Inn, the building is currently disused and neglected but has been purchased by the owners of The Globe.
A supporting statement from the applicants read: “This will form the heart of the Dumfries Burns’ quarter.
“The project aims to bring local, national and international visitors to Dumfries town centre, building on the legacy of Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns.
“This investment will not only act as a catalyst for Burns enthusiasts visiting the area, but will also bring much needed footfall to Dumfries town centre and Dumfries and Galloway.”
Drawings prepared by architects show the ground floor having a reception area, auditorium and garden space, while the first floor shows two kitchen-lounge areas, two bedrooms and two shower rooms.
Proposed works include replacing a defective roof with a natural slate covering to protect the structure and aesthetically blend the building into the Burns’ quarter vision.
The statement explained that external walls would be rendered, to give a rustic appearance in keeping with the Burns’ period design, and complemented with tudor style timber beams and timber sash and case windows.
In addition, a chimney is proposed to be taken down to ridge level as it is in a poor state of repair, is not an original feature and serves no function.
The plans are being reviewed by council planning officials.
- Artist’s impression above
