An application submitted by Yeoman McAllister Architects on behalf of First Endeavour with Craigie Estates for the site of Halley’s Mill just off Broughty Ferry Road was considered by the local authority’s planning committee this week.

Planning officers recommended the application for rejection citing a failure to “respect the character” of the surrounding area, failure to provide the minimum level of useable “private outdoor amenity spaces” and a potential flooding risk posed by the plan’s current drainage system.

The bid was unanimously refused after councillors raised concerns about the size of the flats as well as the overall development.

Committee convener Will Dawson said: “There are a number of red flags for me within the development – size, lack of amenity space. I think it’s fair that all of us would like to see this site redeveloped, however, the development needs to be right.

“It needs to be the right scale and density, it needs to meet the required space standards, and it needs to have good amenity space. And without what even could be considered the basics in my mind, it’s not a good development.”

Developers pointed out permission had previously been granted for an even bigger development, which did not go ahead. Planning consultant Neil Gray said the scaled-down plans would provide much needed housing.

“Historical planning permission was granted for 174 flats and that was with a block of 10 storeys,” he said. “We are looking at something quite different in terms of scale – 144 flats, over only six and five storeys.”

He added: “Dundonians need to be housed just as much as students or short-term visitors. We don’t think there is a fair balance in terms of the report as to all the benefits this development offers.”

Also known as Wallace Craigie Works, the site was razed to the ground after diggers moved on site in May 2018. Dundee City Council launched an investigation into the demolition of the B-listed building after it was claimed the firm did not have permission to carry out the work.

A spokesman for Craigie Estates defended its actions at the time, saying the building was brought down “on the grounds of public safety” adding they had applied successfully for a council building warrant. The council reported the demolition to the police but no charges were brought.