NEW student accommodation is being proposed for Trongate in Glasgow City Centre, retaining elements of listed buildings.

The proposal by developer Deeley Freed is for 101 self-contained student studio apartments plus amenity provision and a commercial unit.

A new nine-storey building would occupy the site of 137 to 149 Trongate, with derelict B-listed 137-143 Trongate demolished apart from the facade. The unlisted 2/3 storey building at 145-149 Trongate would be knocked down also. Neighbouring B-listed 151 Trongate would be kept and adapted.

Anti-social and safety issues associated with the Old Wynd lane would be addressed by creating windows in the wall of the building adjoining it.

The proposals are a reworking of a scheme approved in 2016 for a nine-storey building containing 69 one and two-bedroom studio apartments.

The building would be across the road from the massive Candleriggs Square development currently under construction, which also includes retention of a historic facade.

A document included with the planning application states: “The proposed development presents the opportunity to regenerate a longstanding under-utilised building which sits in a prominent location within Glasgow’s Merchant City.

“Whilst planning permission has previously been granted for other forms of development, due to market conditions and the prevailing economic environment, the applicant has been unable to develop a viable scheme.

“Therefore, in view of substantial demand for student accommodation within the city and the significant shortfall in supply of high-quality purpose-built student accommodation, the proposal seeks to provide accommodation which will contribute to a successful and sustainable neighbourhood.”

The application is pending consideration by city planners.