AN eyesore building opposite one of Glasgow's most popular tourist attractions is to be flattened.

AN eyesore building opposite one of Glasgow's most popular tourist attractions is to be flattened.

The former Bank of Scotland in Queen Street, directly opposite the Gallery of Modern Art, was housed in a concrete building constructed in the 1960s.

It is in the heart of what has been designated an outstanding conservation area.

Edinburgh based Valad Property Group has now been given permission to demolish it and in its place build an 11 storey tower block.

It will have shops and food and drink premises at ground floor level and offices above.

City council planner Jim Patrick said the existing building covers about half of the street block bounded by Queen Street, Ingram Street and Hanover Street.

He added: "The building is of dubious architectural quality and is considered to have a negative impact on the setting of the conservation area."

Architects were asked to reconsider their original design for the building, which is now lying empty, after Scottish architecture bodies said it dominated the area.

As a result, the size of the new tower was reduced by two floors to 11 storeys.

Mr Patrick said :"We feel now it represents a good balance between a building which does not over- dominate its setting and a building which is economically viable.

"We think the new building is bold and contemporary whereas the existing building is weak and discredited."

A report to councillors stated: "The redevelopment proposals are considered to be bold and modern adding significant definition to a prominent corner site."

Anderston/City councillor Gordon Matheson welcomed the new development in the conservation area.

He said: "This is more good news for Glasgow city centre.

"The site at the corner of Queen Street and Ingram Street is an important gateway to the Merchant City.

"The current building is at best functional and I certainly won't shed any tears when it is demolished.

"The new proposal will bring jobs and vibrancy and will fit-in well alongside the boutique shops and café-bars and the beautiful new Caithness slab pavements all around this area."

GoMA is the second most visited contemporary art gallery outside London and has attracted millions of visitors since it opened in 1996.