CAMPAIGNERS have stepped up their fight to stop the demolition of a historic Glasgow garage amid new claims it could be unique in Britain.

CAMPAIGNERS have stepped up their fight to stop the demolition of a historic Glasgow garage amid new claims it could be unique in Britain.

Heritage groups and residents are expected to pack out a meeting this week about Botanic Gardens Garage in the West End in the light of new evidence suggesting the building is even more of a treasure than previously thought.

The property, designed by David Wylie, is owned by Scotland's biggest car dealer Sir Arnold Clark.

He wants to create a modern four-storey building of 35 flats, four mews cottages, retail space and a restaurant at the Vinicombe Street site.

But, as reported by the Evening Times last month, the controversial plans have sparked anger among campaigners who believe the 1912 property and its historic tiled frontage should be saved.

Now experts claim to have uncovered information which points to the garage being the earliest listed multi-storey car park in Britain.

Eva Branscome, of heritage group the Twentieth Century Society, said: "It is an important survivor from the earliest days of automobile history.

"In light of the rarity of this building we are considering requesting Historic Scotland assesses this building for a possible upgrading to Category A."

But the Arnold Clark group insisted the garage had never been used as a multi-storey car park and claimed it was designed as stabling for horses and carts before being used as a working garage.

They say they have consulted experts and the only way to repair the building is to remove B-listed parts of the facade and rebuild it.

The firm says the new building will fit in well in the West End and reduce vehicle congestion by more than 100 cars a day.

A spokesman said: "Arnold Clark Automobiles has continually monitored and maintained this building since it was listed in 1989, but the irreparable damage and corrosion, which began prior to the building's B-listing and our ownership, has been giving real cause for concern.

"Having consulted the advice of specialist structural engineers, it would appear the only feasible option is to rebuild the structure.

"The only way to repair the failing internal structure, is to remove the B-listed elements of the structure and facade.

"Thus we can see no other option.

"We feel the building proposed is sympathetic to the surrounding area and is in keeping with the vibe of the West End.

"The new-build proposed will benefit the area by reducing vehicle congestion by more than 100 cars a day and creating high quality retail space and accommodation."

Glasgow City Council has said the plan will be considered after the summer holidays.

The public meeting will be held at Hillhead Library on Thursday at 7.30pm.