even though some residents refused to pay towards the costs.

The cash wrangle had gone on for 10 years and ended only when Glasgow City Council stumped up for the shortfall, ploughing tens of thousands of pounds into the project.

A fall-out among neighbours delayed repairs for a decade at the B-listed Houndsditch Building on the corner of Ingram Street and Brunswick Street in Merchant City.

Most of the apartment owners were happy to make a cash contribution - but a few had refused.

The final bill to make the imposing property wind and water tight was £340,000.

It meant each of the 84 property owners were asked to stump up more than £4000 each.

Disputes over financial contributions continued even when the Glasgow City Heritage Trust agreed to donate £72,000 in grants towards the repairs.

Council officials then intervened.

A change in legislation allowed them to pay the shortfall so that repairs could be carried out.

But they won't disclose just how much of a contribution was made for fear of causing further bad feeling among neighbours.

However, one resident said: "The majority of the owners have wanted to get the repair work under way for some time but the financial climate has made it very challenging for everyone."

Property consultants Speirs Gumley is the factor who acts for the owners of the building which was constructed in 1854.

It co-ordinated the repairs to windows and stonework as well as guttering and drainpipes.

A council spokesman said: "The council is committed to protecting the city's built heritage and has facilitated this work in support of the majority of the owners and the property factor.

He added that while the council had paid the share "of the minority of owners" it would pursue them for the costs plus expenses.

Glasgow City Heritage Trust's Gordon Urquhart said it was vital that the building looked its best, adding: "Preserving the city's unique Victorian heritage plays a vital role in stimulating economic activity."

gordon.thomson@eveningtimes.co.uk