A DEVELOPER is making a second attempt at getting approval for a massive student accommodation development at the former Marks and Spencer site on Sauchiehall Street.

Original plans by Fusion were refused by Glasgow’s planning applications committee in November.

The proposals have been resubmitted with changes aimed at addressing concerns raised by some councillors who felt that the building would have a harmful impact the Central Conservation Area and nearby listed buildings.

It was also felt that the development would contribute to an over-provision of student accommodation in the vicinity compared with mainstream residential properties.

A design document lodged with planners states that “some of these issues have been addressed” in relation to the massing and design, including “significant changes to the scheme particularly to the tallest component on Renfrew Street, which has the most visual impact”.

It continues: “The Renfrew Street block incorporates a reduction in mass of four storeys to the Renfrew Street side, now including an openframed section with a further roof terrace, and is now proposed to be a storey shorter in its entirety. The remaining floors from level eight to 16 have been extended by one bay (one room) to the south.

“These refined proposals respond to the issues relating to the impact of the previously proposed massing on the Central Conservation Area, and thus lessen the overall mass of the building, notably to the Renfrew Street elevation.”

The complex would have around 620 beds. The historic Marks and Spencer façade would be kept.

At street level, a route connecting Sauchiehall Street with Renfrew Street, historically known as Wellington Arcade, would be reinstated, fronted by five commercial units and the entrance to the student building.

The applicant states: “Our proposals at Sauchiehall Street will provide high-quality, purpose-built accommodation for students from a range of backgrounds including undergraduate, post-graduate and international students.

“A range of accommodation types will be provided which include en-suite rooms, social studios, studios and one-bed apartments.

“In addition to living amenity space included within these accommodation types, a generous amount of amenity space, both internal and external, will be provided supporting a number of different activities for residents.”