THE character of one of Glasgow’s oldest streets is at risk from developments like Merchant Point that would demolish the Old College Bar.

Campaigners, including business owners and politicians want the plans for a 12 storey student accommodation block to be rejected and investment in the existing buildings provided instead.

Last week the Evening Times reported how developers SHG were proposing the block on the corner of High street and George Street which would provide more than 400 bedrooms for students.

The developers said it would be a focal point and a “beacon of regeneration”.

But existing business owners fear for the survival of High Street as a historic street if the block is allowed to go ahead.

Samantha Cooper, of 23 Enigma, said her business is the last remaining in the block due to lack of investment.

She represents the High Street Merchants Association which has been campaigning for the area to be preserved and invested in

She said a combination of rot and rent rises has forced people out.

Ms Cooper said: “No-one is opposed to the need for more housing. We need more social housing and homes for key workers.

High Street has been run down for so long it is very vulnerable.

People care about this old street it represents something. People love it because it is authentic Glasgow, something we cannot afford to lose.”

But she said because of under investment it is at risk of disappearing.

She said: “It is now prey for developers to come in. What we are seeing is the corporatisation of an ancient part of Glasgow.”

The development if it goes ahead would demolish the Old College Bar, which claims to be the oldest pub in Glasgow.

The developers say a recreation of the interior of the bar would be included in a new lounge as part of the project, but opponents claim it is a pastiche.

Christy Mearns, Green councillor for Anderston/City ward, is opposed to the plans.

She said: “Although investment in the area is much needed, it should not come at the expense of High Street’s heritage or of genuinely affordable homes which we desperately need.

“This development would tear through the oldest public house in Glasgow, the popular Old College Bar; and it would tower above all of the other historic buildings in the area.

“Countless residents feel that this proposed development is not at all sympathetic to its surroundings and I agree that this must be a priority, otherwise the character of High Street may be lost forever.”

Councillors are expected top make a decision on the proposal in May this year.