CITY centre residents have been invited to take part in "further procedure" regarding a controversial development. 

We previously reported plans for a development of 109 flats on the corner of Ingram Street and Candleriggs had been approved by Glasgow City Council's planning committee last year, despite more than 140 objections from locals and groups who want the space turned into a community park. 

However, Scottish Ministers wrote to council chiefs 'calling in' the application due to the possible impact it could have on the adjacent City Halls and Old Fruitmarket. 

A spokesperson for Artisan Real Estate, who are behind the development, said they were "disappointed" by the decision.

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Now, letters have been sent from the Scottish Government's Planning & Environmental Appeal Division to those who objected to the plans to invite them to take part in a hearing or inquiry session. 

A letter seen by the Glasgow Times said: "The reporter has now looked at the documentation available and decided that further procedure, that may include a hearing or inquiry session, is required to assist in writing their report.

"As you have made previous representation to the planning authority, I am now writing to let you know that you are eligible to take part in any further procedure relating to a topic that you have previously made representations about."

The letter states hearing sessions take the form of a structured discussion between the parties involved, while the more formal inquiry sessions will allow each party to present evidence, and they will be open to members of the public to attend and watch. 

A pre-examination meeting is also expected to be held in June. 

Merchant City and Trongate Community Council have been calling for a park to be created at 69-97 Ingram Street on land which is currently a car park for four years.

A spokesperson for the community council said they are "pleased" the fight to create a green space has reached another stage and are appealing to anyone who should have received the letter but still has not to get in touch. 

Scott Thornton, secretary and vice-chair, said: "The decision on whether or not to approve this planning application has now passed to the Reporter and Scottish Government.

"This represents a major responsibility.

"However, we are pleased that our four-year fight to create a much-needed green space in the heart of Glasgow has reached another stage.

"Local residents who objected to the proposal have another opportunity to become involved.

"More than 140 objections were lodged.

"All objectors were promised invitations to respond but we know of some who have not received any and have asked the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council to check their records. 

"We also advise any objectors who have not heard from the Scottish Government to get in touch with us urgently via our website mctcc.scot."

A spokesperson for Artisan Real Estate said they intend to take part in any hearing for inquiry sessions. 

They said: "We were disappointed that the decision by Glasgow City Council to approve the scheme at Ingram Street was called in by the Scottish Goverment's Planning & Environmental Appeal Division.

"We have confirmed to the Scottish Goverment's Planning & Environmental Appeal Division that we intend to participate in the hearing and inquiry sessions over the coming months."