A CONTROVERSIAL development of flats in the Merchant City has been given the go-ahead by Glasgow councillors.

The plan for 109 flats at Ingram Street and Candleriggs beside the City Halls attracted 143 objectors from local residents and groups.

Developers Artisan said it will be a car-free, fossil fuel-free development to promote sustainable city centre living.

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After a lengthy planning applications committee, where the objectors had the chance to quiz the developers, it was decided to grant approval.

Campaigners are angry at the decision, saying it is a missed opportunity to create a city centre green space.

Glasgow Times:

Tam Coyle, chair of Merchant City and Trongate Community Council, said: “We are devastated and angry at the outcome.

“It’s ironic since Glasgow was the host of the COP26 UN Climate Change Summit and its leaders have regularly spoken about how determined they are to boost the greening of the city.

“It has now ruined the last remaining opportunity for a community park in the very heart of the city. No other site is available.”

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There are also concerns that the Old Fruitmarket and City Halls venues could be affected in the future.

Christy Mearns, Green councillor, said: “I’m bitterly disappointed that councillors have voted to obliterate the last available open space in Merchant City and putting world-renowned music venues under significant threat of closure.

“Unfortunately, there is now no chance of ever creating a park here, despite the area crying out for it.

“The council says it wants to encourage families and children to live in the city centre yet there is nowhere for them to play or gather. 

“We need new homes but these should be prioritised in appropriate locations.”

The developers said there will be public courtyard space.

Glasgow Times:

David Westwater, Artisan’s regional director for Scotland, said: “We are now looking forward to our vision for this brownfield site in the heart of the city centre becoming a reality. 

“We have set out an innovative design to attract people back into the Merchant City – creating an attractive and accessible space to live, visit, work and enjoy.

“As well as building sustainable and energy efficient new homes, we are also creating a variety of green, open spaces which will provide a rich, natural experience for both residents and visitors alike, with interlinked pathways and accessible seating areas.” 

The six councillors present at the planning applications committee were tied 3-3 in a vote on the plan.

The chair, SNP councillor Ken Andrew, had the casting vote so it was approved.

SNP colleagues Kenny McLean and Declan Blench also voted in favour with Labour councillors Patricia Ferguson and Hanzala Malik and SNP councillor Eva Bolander voting against.

Several more were either absent or had to remove themselves from the decision due to having campaigned against it.