A NEW hotel could be built on the site of a 1850s murder in Glasgow's prestigious Blythswood Square if city planners approve the project.

Plans were submitted to the local authority this week asking for permission to make internal and external alternation's to a listed building on 5-7 Blythswood Square in order to turn the property into a hotel.

Those behind the venture have also asked for permission to change the use of the property from office to hotel.

A design statement accompanying the application explains a murder took place in the basement flat of 7 Blythswood Square.

It states: "The basement flat at 7 Blythswood Square was the home of Madeline Smith and her family in the 1850s. Miss Smith was accused of poisoning her lover but after a long trial the jury reached a verdict of "not proven". Jack House records the details in "Square Mile of Murder".

The building was converted to office use in the 1920s and if permission is granted for this new project, those behind the venture promise to deliver "a world class 59 bed boutique hotel, leisure and hospitality venue."

A decision is expected on the plans by October 19.