Plans to build a £4m centre for children's literature at Moat Brae House in Dumfries have been submitted.

If approved, it would be the first such centre in Scotland, and would be located at the property which helped inspire J M Barrie's famous novel, Peter Pan.

The planning application is seeking permission to construct two new extensions to the historic building, as well as the creation of a "discovery garden".

Earlier this month, Creative Scotland awarded the Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust (PPMBT) almost £700,000 towards the project.


The PPMBT saved the property from demolition in 2009. A major repair and restoration project has been ongoing since then to bring the home back to its former state. The trust hopes the house can be transformed into a new national centre for children's literature and storytelling.

It is understood Historic Scotland and the local authority's planning department support the initiative, but there has also been opposition to the proposals. Some of the concerns relate the the modern-style of the planned extensions which is said to be "inappropriate" and not in keeping with the property's history.

Planning officials have recommended the project go ahead, subject to a number of conditions. Councillors from Dumfries and Galloway Council are expected to discuss the application next week.

(JP/IT)