Plans for 19-storey block of flats in Cowcaddens area of Glasgow approved by councillors

Plans to build 357 flats have been approved on the edge of the city centre with one block reaching 19 storeys.

The homes will offer one or two bedroom or studio apartments available for rent in the Cowcaddens area.

The ‘car free’ scheme will be built on a derelict site bordered by Port Dundas Road, Renton Street and Milton Street.

The development, which will not offer any social housing, is set to have rooftop spaces with vegetable plots, a play area, and pergola. It also boasts a courtyard.

People staying in the four blocks will have access to a gym, private dining rooms, a social and co-working space and a cafe with a terrace among other features.

There will also be a bike workshop and lounges with balconies.

Designs show four blocks including varying heights of 19, 14 and eight storeys with a commercial business on the ground floor of one block.

The planning application from Soller Sixteen Ltd was approved by councillors earlier this week at the planning applications committee subject to conditions.

A council report presented to councillors said: “Utilising a long term vacant site, the apartment complex will be constructed to a high standard contributing to emissions targets and will not have a detrimental impact on the character or environment.”

Seven people lodged objections voicing concerns about the scale and height being excessive, loss of light and privacy for surrounding buildings, an increase in pollution, noise and rubbish among other issues.

One objection said: “The development is being proposed for student accommodation. Such a population fails to leave any real roots within the community. This, together, with the fact that the development will have its own amenities onsite for the sole use of its residents goes against promoting local city centre businesses…”

The application was approved on Tuesday after politicians agreed to add another condition asking for a strategy to ensure the cleaning and maintenance of the building facade.

Plans show four car parking spaces for staff and accessible spaces. There will be cycle storage for residents and visitors.