Anger historic home has been ‘left to rot’

The Herald can reveal East Dunbartonshire Council is considering whether to take formal action over the condition of the listed building, the former home of Thomas Muir, described as the founding father of Scottish democracy.

Huntershill was sold by the council a number of years ago after planning permission was granted to turn the 250-year-old house into a care home.

But the planning permission has now expired.

The home has been on Historic Environment Scotland’s Buildings at Risk Register for years.

One local man told the 
Herald: “It’s a disgrace. This outstanding building looks like it has simply been left to rot. As a local resident, I feel so sad about this.”

Thomas Glen, Depute Chief Executive - Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets, said: “Planning permission was granted for the Huntershill House site, but was never implemented and has now expired.

“The Council has previously been in touch with the owner of the site to encourage more regular repairs and maintenance to avoid the building falling into disrepair.

“The property is listed and, as such, its condition is monitored by both the Council and Historic Environment Scotland.

“Planning officers are monitoring the site to assess the condition of the building and determine whether formal action is necessary,” he said.

The council’s Development and Regeneration Committee agreed at a meeting in 2014 to progress with the sale of the house and land.