Dandara had originally proposed to develop the building into offices but opted to create 337 units for students earlier this year due to a change in market conditions.

A design statement prepared by Halliday Fraser Munro, who were retained as architects following the change, said the plan “recognises and respects the unique urban form of this part of the conservation area”.

Four blocks with red brick cladding are proposed of the same height and width as surrounding ones.

At ground level space will be provided for a coffee shop and area of external seating overlooking Schoolhill, with shared terraces also provided for the use of students.

The development would be almost “car-free” with only six parking spaces.

The tower and spire, built in the 1800s, became derelict in the 1970s.

Gavin Wyley, managing director of Dandara in Aberdeen, said: “Our focus is on securing the future of the former Triple Kirks site, bringing new generations of city centre residents into Aberdeen by creating of the city’s premier student accommodation.

“Demand for high quality live/study accommodation in Aberdeen is far outstripped by supply - we hope to address some of that imbalance through the regeneration of the site.”