Part of the development would see buildings demolished including a B-listed former printworks to make way for the new hotel on a site described as a ‘backland’ to St. Enoch Centre.
A design statement lodged with the council on behalf of applicant Regent Property Ltd said that “the emerging proposals, present a catalyst for change and much needed regeneration and investment in Maxwell Street.”
It said the development would offer a “high-end rooftop restaurant and bar open to both guests and members of the public and an “improved public realm within a deteriorating part of the city.”
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There have been 61 objections to the proposal and 30 supporting comments.
Objectors have voiced concerns that the loss of the listed building would be unjustified and harm the special character and appearance of the Glasgow Central Conservation Area. Other concerns included loss of privacy for adjacent dwellings and an opinion that the replacement building would be “bland” according to a council report.
Objectors include Merchant City and Trongate Community Council, MSP Paul Sweeney and Save Britain’s Heritage.
Mr Sweeney said: “Glasgow must show leadership in protecting its built heritage and insist that developers do not pursue demolition by neglect when viable alternatives clearly exist.”
Among supporting comments are that it is an opportunity to develop a long-term derelict site and the design complements the area’s heritage without competing with it.
One resident said: “The street is frequented with undesirables and feels unsafe in the evenings. It would regenerate this neglected urban area replacing a semi derelict building with a modern and sustainable development, revitalising a brownfield city-centre site that will improve the appearance vibrancy and safety of the street.”
The proposals will receive a pre-determination hearing on Tuesday at the planning applications committee.