NEW flats could be built on a prime location in the heart of Glasgow's shopping style mile if city planners approve.

The proposal for 21 flats on Argyle Street was submitted to Glasgow City Council this week.

Those behind the plans want to convert a former commercial building to form 21 flats. They also want to retain the retail use for the ground and basement floor. That unit previously housed popular shoe store Revel.

The application was submitted by Wilton Argyle Ltd, who are based in the Italian Centre in Glasgow.

The planning statement said: "They are committed to repairing and preserving the building through pragmatic and careful conservation based intervention.

"Wilton Argyle Ltd have a track record of delivering successful projects to meet market opportunity and demand."

The category B listed building was originally designed for use as an office and warehousing. It dates back to1905 and was designed by JA Campbell.

The proposal states that there would three flats on each floor of the building while the retail element would be retained on the ground and basement floors.

The planing statement said: "A number of alternative uses have been explored involving apart hotel and studio offices, but from a funding perspective the residential is the most deliverable option and favourable for the market."

The previous owners planned to demolish the building in 2015. The planning statement explains that "the justification for this was based on detailed findings and a structural /economic assessment of the repair works needed to deal with a corroded structural frame".

Scaffolding was erected around the building which allowed the new owners' conservation team to assess the issues highlighted and they reached the conclusion that the building could be saved.

The last date for comments for the plans is September 7 while city planners have until October 12 to make a decision.