A DEVELOPER has been given permission to demolish an old Glasgow warehouse and build a 12-storey apartment block.

An application by Kelvin Properties for 34 apartments at 69/73 Houldsworth Street, Cranstonhill, was today approved, subject to conditions, by councillors on Glasgow’s planning local review committee which voted 7:3 in favour.

The proposal was considered by the review committee because the developer lodged an appeal over lack of a decision from city officials within the time period expected.

The building which is to be demolished is a four-storey, late 1800s industrial structure that is not listed, nor in a conservation area. The lower floors are in use by a fishmonger.

A report to the committee stated that the applicant believed the building and the current use “are a blight on this increasingly popular residential area and present an ideal redevelopment opportunity”.

A design statement included with the application explained: “A robust proposal is required to set a new high quality of design to balance the poor quality of the 2000s white and blue render composition on Elliot Street.

“A block of equal height to the existing 12-storey tower is required to pair-up with the impact of the established architecture and present a high quality face for this city block to the housing association properties to the north.

“The new block would represent Cranstonhill as a distinct neighbourhood and establish a character to the area separate from the ‘Finnieston Strip’ and St Vincent Street housing.

“It is hoped that the development will set the tone for the development of the rest of the city block, most likely at gradually reducing heights.”

The document continued: “[The existing building] has a reasonably attractive frontage with upper floors in red common brick with buff common brick window surrounds. The ground floor has been altered from the original to leave a blank wall with modern small doorway.

“The only part of this building worth saving is the front elevation and even this is tarnished by the ‘modern’ altered ground floor. In addition, the entire interior would need to be reclad in insulated lining to make it fit for residential use.

“Retaining this section would blight the development of the rest of the site, blocking the installation of an ideal sized residential development.

“As the building is not listed, nor in a conservation area, it should be demolished to make way for a confident, contemporary design, suitable for creating sustainable and low energy properties of desirable proportions for the modern market.”

It further stated: “The proposals set a bold new vision for the Cranstonhill area and establish a quality of design which matches the modern Sanctuary Housing Association development on St Vincent and Argyle Streets.

“The landmark nature of the building creates an identity for Cranstonhill which should encourage similar quality development in the surrounding area.

“The development will create a new residential community with low energy requirements, high health and well-being standards and with sustainability credentials to set a benchmark for future development.”

There will be a “generously landscaped back court” and “a spectacular rooftop landscaped deck”, with views across the city.

Eleven one-bedroom flats, 22 with two bedrooms and one three-bedroom unit will be provided. Every flat will have a private external balcony space and full-height glazing.