A PLAN to build new flats on the former Anniesland Jobcentre site have stalled after a design glitch.

Mactaggart and Mickel have been given consent to transform the old office blocks into 48 state-of-the-art flats.

But the company has had to apply to Glasgow City Council for a change of permission after admitting proposals to install stairways inside the main hallways are not practical.

Instead, the developer will have to move the stairs to an attached block next to the main entrance in each building to allow more space for the flats.

In a letter to the council, Ian Gallacher, director of Iceni Project, who are the agent for Mactaggart and Mickel, said: “Under the current scheme, our client is struggling to achieve a build solution that viably incorporates the internal stair cores as designed within the buildings.

“The proposed external stair cores will allow for the creation of better internal living spaces while incorporating strong architectural design concepts approved as part of the original scheme and improving the current building façade.

“The new external stair cores will provide a welcoming and spacious entrance feature for future residents.

The original planning consent was given with a condition that the stairs would be built inside the main hallways but that has now been found to be flawed.

If approved, the developer will extend the size of the living room, kitchen and dining areas of each flat, using space where the internal stairs would have been.

Craig Ormond, director of Mactaggart and Mickel Homes, said: “Our conversion plans will breathe new life into this vacant, brownfield site, providing quality apartments in an area of the city with excellent amenities and public transport options.

“As our detailed design developed and technical consents progressed, we are of the view that we can provide better layouts within the apartments by locating the staircases externally.

“This solution also reduces the complexity of the construction and will speed up the build.

“We expect to be on site before the end of the year, with a 24-month construction timeline.”

As part of the plans, a two-storey structure on the site will be demolished, with a new close to be built on the end of the existing building.

Balconies will also be included, with many residents able to take in views of the Campsies.

The former Jobcentre became vacant last year after year the Department for Work and Pensions announced it was closing 10 sites across Scotland.

The Anniesland Jobcentre was moved to Partick, while Langside, Parkhead, Easterhouse, Bridgeton and Maryhill’s facilities were closed.

In February this year, an impact assessment for the Anniesland site showed that the extra 2.6-mile journey to Partick would impact mothers who have to pick up their children most.