JACKIE Baillie MSP has voiced her concerns after a fire at the site of a former hotel in Dumbarton.
Seven fire engines were sent to the former Dumbuck House Hotel on Glasgow Road in the early hours of this morning at 1.20am.
This led to A814 Glasgow Road being closed between the A82 and Oaktree Gardens.
The East Annexe of the 1798 country house has been devastated by the blaze but it is thought the main building can be saved – although extensive damage has been done to the interior.
The once popular hotel has been closed since the pandemic, after it was bought by Devilla Property Services.
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.
READ MORE: Firefighters fight Dumbarton blaze at former Dumbuck House Hotel
The decision came despite more than 90 objections lodged by local residents after HES backed the applicant’s statement that there was “no possibility” of future reuse due to the economic climate and the fact that the fabric of the property was “in a poor state”.
And Dumbarton representative insists the future of the site is uncertain.
“I am very sorry to hear of the effect this fire has had on the Dumbuck Hotel, which was once a very popular location," she said.
“I am concerned that this may result in the loss of a landmark for the town and now fear for its future.
“I know that many residents will share my concerns over what this fire will mean for the site.”
Meanwhile, local councillor David McBride, who previously stated his opposition to the building being delisted, also expressed his dismay at the situation.
He said: "I am extremely concerned to learn of the fire at the Dumbuck Hotel.
"I was very vocal against the application to de-list the building and disappointed when this was a granted.
"To now watch footage of the raging flames is devastating. It is a huge loss to the history of the town and the special memories many of us have of celebrations in the past.
"I will await reports from Police Scotland and Fire and Rescue of their enquiries into the cause of the fire".
Another local councillor Chris Pollock added: "I was shocked but not surprised to hear that the Dumbuck Hotel had went on fire in the early hours of this morning.
"I stay nearby to the hotel and I could see and smell the smoke.
"The building was recently delisted which meant the owner was free to demolish without planning permission.
"Many local residents and community councils were very unhappy with this due to the fact the town could lose yet another historic building. "
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