COMMUNITY activists have branded plans to build flats in an area of Glasgow with one of the city’s lowest ratios of green space as 'totally unacceptable'.

Nixon Blue is seeking permission to build 36 properties on the former Corunna Bowling Green in St Vincent Crescent in Finnieston. 

A previous application for 39 flats on the protected open space was rejected by the council in 2018 and an appeal thrown out.

The developer has now reduced the number of flats by three, from 39 and wants to build a seven-storey block instead of nine as well as public gardens.

There were almost 400 objections to the initial application and the council’s local review committee turned down the application in March last year, highlighting three issues. 

READ MORE: New bid to build flats on site of historic bowling club 

These were the need for a bowling club, the loss of urban space and the height, scale and massing of the proposed development. 

Corunna Bowling club was established around 1860 but was forced to close in 2017 due to “dwindling membership”. 

Lee Grant, chairman of Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council says the plan runs contrary to the council’s designation of the site as a protected space.

He said: “The main issue is that this land is designated as protected open space in the City Plan and has always been green space. 

“The plan is a formal document which Glasgow City Council produce with public consultation.

“The city has protected this open space and we, the residents, along with the council value its enormous potential as green space. 

“The recent Covid-19 situation highlights the importance of green space on both our physical and mental wealth. 

“The loss of this green space would be totally unacceptable in the area with the lowest ratio of green space per capita in all of Glasgow.

READ MORE: Appeal to turn Corunna Bowling Club into flats rejected by by council

“Similarly, the site remains viable for a variety of open space community uses. Back in 2018 residents were approached by a community flower market group who needed the space to grow flowers.

"The club house, following minimal repair can offer our community a valuable resource whilst contributing to the character of the St Vincent Crescent Conservation Area.”

In its planning statement, Nixon Blue say the proposal will not compromise green space

"In effect it is the opposite. This new garden is well designed, will be well-managed and without question will benefit the quality of life for all local residents.”