Residents have been left outraged after Glasgow City Council were urged to accept plans to erect flats in front of world renowned mural.
The Planning Applications Committee is due to discuss the proposal for a new seven story block, which will include 109 apartments, shops and cafes, this Tuesday.
However, the plans have been met with more than 140 objections. Merchant City and Trongate Community Council campaigned for the site to be turned into a green space.
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Residents have been backed by Depute Lord Provost and Ward Councillor Christy Mearns who commented: “The climate and nature emergencies demand we do everything we can to protect green space and mature trees which improve citizens’ well-being and address climate change.
"There is a willing community who want to develop plans for an improved public space here, yet their voices have been ignored.
“The positive green vision which has been developed by the community would bring far greater long-term benefits than can ever be gained from selling off this precious public land for short-term profit.”.
The site on Ingram Street at the junction of Candleriggs and Albion Street near the City Halls is currently a car park and home to the famous mural ‘Fellow Glasgow Residents’ which shows a variety of animals peeking through what appear to be holes in a wall.
The mural is regularly photographed by tourists from all over the world. MCTCC said the proposed building would cover major parts of it with some of the remainder obscured.
“We want to see an attractive green space where the local community can meet friends, neighbour and visitors, read and relax,” said Community Councillor Peter Hayman. “It could be a site for local fairs, markets and entertainment, and a meeting place for patrons of the nearby City Halls.”
In response to residents feeling ignored, a Glasgow City Council spokesperson said: "We listen to any proposals for potential uses there or at any other such site in the city."
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