CURRY King Charan Gill is among 150 objectors who will today try to block controversial plans for a new housing development on a gap site next to one of Glasgow's oldest Victorian terraces.

CURRY King Charan Gill is among 150 objectors who will today try to block controversial plans for a new housing development on a gap site next to one of Glasgow's oldest Victorian terraces.

Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association bosses want to build 31 flats beside historic Franklin Terrace in Kelvingrove which dates back to 1845.

But the plans have prompted anger from heritage groups including the Thomson Society, Historic Scotland and Friends of Glasgow West.

They have also failed to find favour with businessman Charan Gill, who is one of the most prominent objectors among 150 people who have signed a petition against the scheme.

The six-storey development at the corner of Argyle and Lymburn streets is contrary to Glasgow City Council's own planning policy which says parking must be provided in any new developments.

It is also two storeys taller than the existing B-listed terrace and objectors say the roof line will dominate the existing property.

The planning application, which was originally lodged in December last year, will today go before council chiefs.

But Mr Gill, who formerly owned the Harlequin restaurant group and runs a business close to the planned development said: "I don't think the design is sympathetic at all, it just doesn't fit.

"I find it unbelievable that an application like this has been put forward without any provision for parking. If I as a businessman wanted to do the same I wouldn't be allowed."

The proposals have sparked an angry response from residents living near the Victorian building who claim the design is contrary to planning policy.

They also say a courtyard within the planned development lacks the appropriate amenity area and has no safe play areas for children.

The petition says: "New development must respect its historic context in volume, scale, form, materials and quality. The proposed development grossly detracts from the character of the area, nor does the design for this proposal, enhance the area."

Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association was established in 1996 and one of the largest housing associations in the country.

A spokesperson for the association said: "Naturally we are disappointed to hear that there have been objections to our proposals but we believe the issues with design and parking have been addressed in our revised plans.

"This is reflected in the report to the planning applications committee, which clearly recommends the application should be approved."