COUNCILLORS have upheld refusal of a plan to turn a rundown pub in The Barras into a cafe, with new flats above it.

The proposal involved the fire-damaged Traders’ Tavern in Stevenson Street at Kent Street which has been derelict for some years.

Two one-bedroom flats, each with a small balcony, were to be provided at first floor level.

Glasgow City planners rejected the idea of having flats at the site saying there would be poor levels of privacy “as a result of their incongruous location within a busy commercial area”.

Their decision notice also stated: “The proposed flats, as a consequence of their lack of external space, restricted internal space provision and limited aspect, would result in a poor standard of residential amenity for intended occupants.”

The applicant lodged an appeal, arguing: “Through careful consideration in the design, the proposals seek to utilize the space as much as possible with the provision of a generous sized private balcony for each residential flat providing outdoor amenity space for residents whilst enhancing the levels of natural daylight into habitable spaces.

“The proposed layout ensures there is no direct overlooking of neighbouring properties, safeguarding the privacy of residents.”

But councillors on the city’s planning local review committee have now backed the original decision.