Iain Wilson Properties sought to demolish the vacant property at 32 Mansionhouse Road and build 20 two-bedroom flats in a five-storey block.

Twenty car parking spaces and cycle parking would also have been provided.

But planners rejected the application, citing a lack of justification for the loss of the sandstone villa.

Their report added: “The proposal is overdevelopment of the site which leads to a parking-led residential layout to the detriment of both existing residents’ amenity and that of future residents of the proposed development.

“The proposal fails to provide adequate onsite amenity and would result in the loss of significant mature trees which are not in the ownership of the applicant.”

A design statement prepared by DTA Architects had argued: “Presently a large two/three-storey villa occupies the site which has been recently vacated by the previous owners.

“The level and style of development proposed is in keeping with the surrounding area and we feel it will be a positive contribution to the streetscape.”

It added: “The villa was used as a convent with residential accommodation for the Sister of Bon Secours for many years until they recently chose to sell the property.

“The existing villa is of no architectural merit or importance and carries no listing.”