A longstanding eyesore on a key approach to Perth could finally be repaired, giving its famous former inhabitant the status he deserves in Fair City folklore.
Buchan House on Glasgow Road was the birthplace of renowned author John Buchan, who penned some of the best-loved adventure stories ever written. But other than a small plaque on the wall, there is little to suggest the house’s illustrious past.
As well as writing novels such as The 39 Steps later made into a classic Alfred Hitchcock movie Buchan was made Governor General of Canada, upon which he became Lord Tweedsmuir.
Now architects Muir Walker and Pride have submitted detailed plans to Perth and Kinross Council for bringing the house back to life. A new roof, repaired brickwork and replacement windows and doors will give it an external transformation.
And it is hoped there will be big plans for the interior as well.
Ian McPherson, former chairman of Perth Civic Trust, said: “We hope to be able to persuade the owners to make the house a tourist attraction.
“We would like to see a room retained as it was back then to keep a bit of history about the place. I would also like to see a bigger commemorative plaque outside.
“I’ve had Canadian tourists ask me in the past where the Governor General’s house is and I’ve been a bit embarrassed to tell them.
“It’s an eyesore coming into the city from the Glasgow Road but hopefully we’ll finally be able to do something with Buchan House.”
Perth city centre councillor Archie MacLellan said: “It’s good to see something finally happening. I have argued for a long time that we should be doing something with the building.
“It’s embarrassing to see how the building has been neglected, considering the association with John Buchan. His career is certainly something we should be marking in Perth.”
Buchan was born in the house in August 1875. As well as The 39 Steps, his novels included Greenmantle and Prester John. He was chancellor of Edinburgh University and a Lord High Commissioner of the general Assembly of the Church of Scotland.