Holmes Miller had initially submitted plans in 2018 on behalf of Kelvin Properties for 34 apartments, all of which were for private sale.

The plan was to demolish part of the clubhouse, refurbish the rest of the structure, and build a five-storey block of flats, with car parking, on the disused north eastern bowling green and the area around it.

The development also offered associated landscaping and refurbishment of the retained portion of the clubhouse.

However, planning officials rejected the application on the grounds that it would result in overdevelopment and would fail to meet place-making principles designed to deliver high quality residential environments.

Planners also said it would mean the loss of protected open space and that there was not enough car parking provision.

Kelvin Properties lodged an appeal over the decision which was considered by councillors on Glasgow’s planning local review committee yesterday.

The development will deliver a mixture of 2 and 3 bedroom apartments on a portion of disused land within the club grounds whilst retaining and upgrading the existing bowling club facilities.

A statement submitted with the application explained: “Due to falling club memberships and a reduced participation in club activities, there has been a steady decline in inward investment for the club, which has resulted in a continuous reduction in the quality of club facilities on offer. The club currently barely breaks even on annual membership subscriptions, function hire and rental income from a Vodafone telecommunications mast.

“The north eastern bowling green is no longer in use, and the maintenance and upkeep has become an unaffordable financial burden for the club. The proposed portion of the clubhouse to be demolished (the old function room), lies unused throughout winter, as the club can no longer afford to heat it.

“The club are keen to carry out essential upgrades to the club facilities, as well as secure the long-term future of Shawlands Bowling Club.

“For these reasons the club committee have decided to release an unused parcel of land for development. The money received from the sale will be re-invested into the club by refurbishing the clubhouse and grounds, ensuring the 156-year-old club is not lost from the Shawlands community.”