National Trust bosses are seeking planning permission for a massive programme of fire prevention work at 800-year-old Brodick Castle - after a report found the precious castle would be "defenceless" against a blaze.

The A-listed building on the Isle of Arran is in line for a thorough facelift as plans have been put forward for an improved fire detection system, a new firefighting lift and the replacement of various doors and windows.

A fire risk assessment from 2009 and 2010 found that the castle did not comply with fire regulations to the extent that it would "likely prove defenceless in the event that a fire takes place".

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The remote location of the castle, lack of firefighting services on the island and a lack of facilities for firefighting crews to tackle a large-scale blaze were cited as factors that would see the total loss of the castle if a fire were to take hold.

The report said that catastrophic scenario would be culturally disastrous because of the castle's historical importance.

More than 60 plans and drawings have now been put forward to North Ayrshire Council to make the former seat of the Duke of Hamilton compliant with the Fire Scotland Act of 2005.

It is not yet known how much the proposed work will cost as permission has not been granted yet and contracts and tenders have not been arranged.

A National Trust for Scotland spokesman said the trust was looking at a significant amount of challenges to bring the 13th-century castle into line with fire safety legislation.

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He said: "Brodick Castle presents a number of challenges in meeting requirements that have emerged from legislation, but nevertheless we must take all possible steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of visitors, staff, volunteers and the collections.

"An early application is being sought with a view to works being undertaken next year.

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"Once permission is in place, we will be in a position to issue tenders and arrange contracts to allow the works to go ahead."