Image by Mosaic Architecture + Design

Property developer Big Top Productions intends to demolish the building on the Ropework Lane site, which previously traded as Anne Millers, in order to build 18 serviced apartments.

Traditionally popular with Rangers fans, Anne Millers closed in May 2017 and was later purchased in the same year by Big Top’s Andre Graham and husband Seamus Sweeney.

Big Top plans to invest a total of £3 million in the development, which will also bring a rooftop terrace, parking spaces for cyclists and two penthouses to the area. 

The apartments will be available to rent on a short-term basis.

A planning statement from Big Top reads: “The existing building has been derelict for some time since the pub closed therefore it has fallen into disrepair having a negative impact on townscape.

“A new development of this nature will improve Ropework Lane by creating a more welcoming environment whilst at the same time provide a robust building that is easily adaptable for future generations and uses.

“This is a contemporary piece of architecture that responds to its historic context and will make a positive contribution to Ropework Lane and the wider context of Glasgow.”

Giving their support for the application, council planners stated: “The applicant has suitably demonstrated the poor condition of the existing building and its removal can therefore be supported.

“The proposed replacement building is considered to be appropriate in scale, design and use of high quality materials and will make a successful contribution to its conservation area setting and the council’s placemaking objectives.

“The proposed short-stay serviced apartment use is wholly compatible with the city centre location and its management can be safeguarded though a suitably worded management plan.

“Other material considerations including representation have been considered, however these do not outweigh the proposal’s accordance with the Development Plan.”

Councillors on Glasgow’s planning applications committee are due to consider the proposal on Tuesday.