The Castletown Nautical Museum, which had previously housed the famous armed yacht Peggy, has been put forward for registered status.

Manx National Heritage (MNH), the custodians of the building, welcomed the move to protect it.

It dates from 1789 and was initially constructed as a boathouse, dock and stable dock.

MNH said that some ’fascinating archaeological finds’ had been uncovered there in recent years, including the remains of a complete dock with timber guillotine gates .

If the buildings on Bridge Street are successfully entered on to the Protected Buildings Register, it would restrict any future planning proposals, and prohibit demolition.

The Nautical Museum is among around 30 sites (including war memorials) which have recently been nominated for registered status.

In April, the government minister responsible for planning applications, Geoffrey Boot, said more buildings would be granted protection before September’s general election.

MNH also welcomed the decision to include Castletown’s Old Grammar School, which is the oldest roofed building among those proposed.