RESIDENTS in the West End have welcomed a positive development in their campaign to protect a much-loved lane.

A campaign was launched to protect Otago Lane after planning permission for four townhouses and 45 flats was granted by Glasgow City Council in 2012.

In recent weeks, the row between residents and developer Hugh Scott has been reignited after concrete blocks were installed on the lane, restricting access for emergency services and cleansing vehicles.

Following backlash, the concrete blockades have been removed, and residents told that they will be granted six parking spaces by the City developer

A spokesman for Otago Lane Residents Association, said: “Whilst we accept that planning permission has been granted for the site, we remain opposed to the development.

“We are also opposed the removal of any parking and access to the residential properties and businesses of Otago Lane.

“We are staggered at the heavy handed nature of recent actions which have resulted in the police being called due to the harassment particularly of female members of the community, dangerous living conditions in terms of emergency access hygiene cause by the instalment of the large concrete barriers

“We welcome Hugh Scott’s recent gesture of benevolence towards the community, and look forward to seeing his continued positive, friendly and community spirited behaviour.”