CONTROVERSIAL plans to build new student flats next to the famous Glasgow School of Art have stalled.

The council's planning application committee today voted to continue the application until a hearing has been carried out.

This will give a chance for those for and against the plans to make their case.

A date for this hearing is still to be decided.

The council has received 46 letters of objection in relation to the application including impact on the character and setting of the Mackintosh Building and conservation area and views towards it from surrounding areas.

Objectors have also claimed the building would damage Glasgow's reputation as a tourist destination and any future Unesco World Heritage bid, as well as complaints of an oversupply of student accommodation in the city centre.

The council has previously stated that the proposal "is acceptable in land use planning terms" and that the design enhances the character and appearance of the conservation area.

The plans involve the demolition of the late-1960s block housing the former Jumping Jacks nightclub to make way for the creation of a 180-bed student housing development, including roof gardens, study rooms, common areas and a cinema room. At street level it is proposed to reinstate retail and leisure units.

GSA director Professor Tom Inns has said the institution is "significantly concerned" by the proposal.