The West Lothian-born sportsman is to renovate the townhouse on Ainslie Place, turning it into a seven-bedroom mansion with rooftop terrace.

He had sought permission from the City of Edinburgh Council to make the alterations to the A-listed building, which was originally designed by architect James Gillespie Graham in 1822 for the 10th Earl of Moray.

Di Resta’s plans include a kitchen, drawing room, cellar, plant room and three bedrooms on the basement floor and a second kitchen, a dining room and garden room on the ground floor.

The first floor will contain a lounge, office and TV room, while the second floor will have another bedroom and master bedroom. On the third floor there will be a lounge and bar and a further two bedrooms.

The existing roof will be converted into a terrace with decking, a glass balustrade, seating areas and lighting.

Plans for the proposed conversion were drawn up by architect Marshall Inglis.

In his submission to the council, Mr Inglis stated: “The proposed works seek to renovate and renew the existing property in order to create an attractive residential home which is respectful of the building’s history, whilst offering the spaces, finishes and facilities required by the applicant.

“The project will be undertaken with a deep understanding of the historical significance of the property and the location it inhabits. The scheme will retain and renew the original features of the property whilst all ‘new’ works will aim to be harmonious with the existing property and be of a high standard that enhances and enlivens the property.”

Di Resta’s planning application was approved despite an objection from the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland who raised concerns about the changes to the historic building.