THE developer behind plans for 39 homes – with a rooftop garden – in the West End is urging city planners to approve the scheme, despite concerns in the community.

Nevis Properties requested permission for the homes, with an underground car park for 27 vehicles, on the site of the former North Kelvinside Parish Church in August last year.

But a decision wasn’t made within a two-month timeframe and the company has now asked for a review.

More than 50 representations have been submitted to the council, with many residents objecting to the Kelbourne Street plan.

Councillors will meet today to consider the application.

Sandra White MSP, Patrick Grady MP, Councillor Martha Wardrop and North Kelvin Community Council have all written to the council about the proposal.

Ms White’s letter details fears raised with her by constituents. She said the “proposed slab-sided, flat-topped blocks would be a jarring addition” to the street and there would be “substantial shadow” on the play park.

Proposed balconies would be “directly overlooking the children’s play areas”, Ms White added.

She suggested amendments could be made to reduce the height of the flats, introduce pitched roofs and include screening, such as trees, between apartments and the park to “protect the children’s privacy”.

Ms Wardrop has objected to the development, raising concerns over the loss of biodiversity, a potential negative impact on the historic environment and the possible shadow.

She pointed out 10 replacement trees were planned, fewer than the 11 that will be chopped down.

The councillor also said there would be “significant pressures” on local on-street parking.

The developer believes the proposal is compliant with planning policies. It feels the proposed development “will respect the existing urban form” and bring vacant land back into use, providing “a choice of attractive accommodation”.

In a letter asking for a review, the developer states discussions with the council “took a change in direction” in April last year when council officers changed from “constructive” to “notably unsupportive”.

The developer adds daylight in the park “will remain within the necessary guidelines” and the homes would improve security as the park is currently “difficult to overlook” creating a “relatively dangerous” corner.

It argues the site is “highly accessible” and will “attract residents who do not or may not have or want a car” therefore having a “minimal” impact on roads.