Barricades have been installed in the doorway of a landmark city building in a bid to cut crime.

After lying derelict for years, the Argyle Street building has become the centre of a crime hot spot.

Police figures show there have been a "significant" number of crimes in the doorway of the former Tower Records site in the past year.

These include possession of drugs, urinating, defecating, and drinking alcohol.

The shop front - which is under what is traditionally known as the Hielanman's Umbrella - has now been boarded up, removing the recess.

Chief Inspector Mark Sutherland, area commander for Glasgow city centre, said: "Following a partnership meeting between Community Safety Glasgow and Police Scotland a decision was taken to try and remove the recess area at the store on Argyle Street.

"This recess has been the subject of numerous complaints to Police Scotland by business owners and members of the public with regard to anti-social behaviour, including drug and alcohol misuse."

The area just yards from Glasgow's top shopping district, is also used by people sleeping rough.

In recent years, the area around the building has become a problem for police.

Earlier this month, we told how fast food giant McDonald's was ordered to continue hiring bouncers at their outlet next door to the former Tower Records site.

On one occasion a man had died from a drugs overdose in a toilet cubicle and was found five hours later.

However, licensing chiefs have since relaxed the restrictions but the company has been told it is required to retain four security staff across Friday and Saturday nights.

Information about accommodation and support services for homeless people will be posted on the front of the building.

Chief Inspector Sutherland added: "There has been a period of engagement prior to taking this action with anyone sleeping in or using the recess offered the appropriate support services including access to temporary accommodation.

"I fully support this decision, which will refer vulnerable people to the appropriate support services."

In 2012, the Evening Times revealed how one of the city's most dangerous lanes was to be blocked off.

Gordon Lane, which runs from opposite The Lighthouse in Mitchell Street to Gordon Street, was increasingly being used by drug dealers, drunks and criminals.

A young woman was sexually assaulted in the lane, and a number of thefts, possession of drugs, urinating, threatening and abusive behaviour, also took place.

A Glasgow City Council spokesman said: "This action has been taken in response to complaints about anti-social behaviour and public drinking in this area.

"We have been speaking regularly to the individuals concerned in an attempt to divert them to appropriate support services."