The Anne Frank Huis foundation has bought 20 student flats next to the property on the Prinsengracht to further expand the facilities for visitors and end the legendary queues outside.

The museum complex was last overhauled in 1999, when it was considered capable of dealing with 800,000 visitors a year. ‘We have now reached 1.2 million,’ says director Garance Reus-Deelder. ‘We are, of course, very pleased with this but it does mean the space for so many people is limited.’

The foundation has reached agreement with housing corporation De Key to buy 20 flats used by exchange students which are located above the museum shop. They will be used to expand the entrance and improve facilities for groups.

Seven students who are losing their homes will be given compensation. The foundation has not revealed the price paid for the flats but said it was at ‘market rates’.