A DECISION on whether an empty City Centre pub can be demolished and replaced with serviced apartments has been put off by councillors.

Big Top Productions have applied to knock down the old Annie Miller’s bar on the corner of Ropework Lane and Metropole Lane. A six-storey building with 18 apartments is proposed.

Council officials are recommending that permission is given.

Councillors on Glasgow’s planning applications committee considered the proposal on Tuesday but, despite a presentation made from a planning officer they felt they needed more information.

The committee will hold a hearing on the proposal, allowing those who support or oppose the application to contribute.

Sixteen objections have been received raising concerns about there being too many flats for the site, blocked views, noise and anti-social behaviour, and traffic and parking problems.

In their report to the committee, planners state: “The applicant has suitably demonstrated the poor condition of the existing building and its removal can therefore be supported.

“The proposed replacement building is considered to be appropriate in scale, design and use of high quality materials and will make a successful contribution to its conservation area setting and the council’s placemaking objectives.

“The proposed short-stay serviced apartment use is wholly compatible with the city centre location and its management can be safeguarded though a suitably worded management plan.

“Other material considerations including representation have been considered, however these do not outweigh the proposal’s accordance with the Development Plan.”