PROPOSALS for nearly 100 flats involving B-listed former mill buildings in the Gorbals have been approved.

Glasgow city planners have given permission for residential conversion of premises in Old Rutherglen Road at Commercial Road which includes the oldest surviving iron‐framed mill in Glasgow, possibly the oldest in Scotland.

Demolition of a modern health facility, now vacant, and construction of two blocks of new flats will also take place.

The two B-listed mill structures — which were on the Buildings At Risk Register — were saved and converted into a commercial centre offering a range of office and public services in the early 1990s.

A document submitted with the planning application stated: “Old Rutherglen Road Limited, part of London Scottish Limited, is looking to secure consent that will ensure the sustainability of the existing buildings. There is little commercial demand for extended or new leases in the buildings now and there are some vacancies.

“The proposal is to create a mixed-use residential block of new-build and conversions offering a diverse range of affordable flatted units including some for large families to the area.

“The existing buildings have been maintained over the years and are in reasonable condition.”

A total of 92 units plus a shop will be provided — 39 new-build properties and 53 in the listed buildings, ranging from studios to large loft-style family flats.

The statement continues: “Minimal external and internal alterations are required to create the dwellings and all original features can be retained.

“In addition to the conversion of the listed structures, the proposal seeks to demolish three more contemporary structures where conversion is unsuitable. In place the two structures that fronted Commercial Road will be replaced by two high-quality residential blocks

“Two designated landscaped courtyards are proposed with shared amenity space and private garden areas to ground floor units, some with direct front door access.”