A PLAN to build a block of flats in a conservation area of Glasgow is creating a storm of protest.

Thirty-one objections have been lodged against an application to demolish a bungalow and create a four-storey block of 10 two-bedroom flats and a 15 space car park in Pollokshields.

Concerns have been expressed that the building in Sherbrooke Drive would overshadow the historic B-listed Sherbrooke St Gilbert's Parish Church next door, which is renowned for its stained glass windows.

David Meikle, councillor for Pollokshields, is one of the objectors.

He said: "The proposal will have a negative impact on the church, especially the outstanding stained glass window.

"It will come within a yard of the church and if given the go-ahead it would also see the loss of green space.

"I am also concerned about the height of the block of flats.

"It is important we conserve the setting of the church and I urge all residents to send in a letter of objection to the planning department."

The church's specially designed stained, mouthblown glass windows were installed after the church was ravaged by fire in 1994, its centenary year.

The roof collapsed, destroying what was a new £130,000 stained glass window.

More than 80 firefighters fought the blaze, which was believed to have broken out when a builder was using a blow torch for annual maintenance work.

Made by Susan Bradbury, of the Stained Glass Design Partnership of Kilmaurs, the replacement windows include prisms, lenses and textured glass to create special effects. Themes include The Creation and baptism.

Nobody at the church was available to comment, but Mr Meikle fears if the development is granted it will set a "dangerous precedent" for the area, where there are few modern blocks of flats.

The application has been made by Antonio Spadi, who currently rents out the bungalow.

His representative Arthur Neil, of A & A Neil architects at Charing Cross, said: "I understand there are a number of representations, but do not know if there are any substance to them."

A spokeswoman for Historic Scotland said: "As the church is B-listed it is for Glasgow City Council to consider if it will be affected by the application."

A council spokesman for said: "This application will be considered in due course at the planning applications committee."