COMPETING proposals for a former Glasgow South Side bowling green were put before planning councillors.

Noah Developments want to build 40 flats at Mount Florida Bowling Club in Carmunnock Road but local campaigners hope to turn it into a community sports and leisure facility.

City council planners had recommended that both be given planning permission as they each comply with the relevant development policies.

The bowling club voted last year to sell the land to Noah Developments.

The planning applications committee today approved Mount Florida Community Trust’s application but delayed a decision on the flats plan so that a hearing can be held.

This will feature a presentation by officials as normal but will also allow those who support or oppose the application to contribute.

More than 600 objections have been received over the residential proposal but also 120 letters of support.

The flats would be in two residential blocks, each with five floors. A large area of publicly-accessible green space would be provided, the details of which would be drawn up after public consultation.

The community proposal attracted around 160 letters of support and 64 objections.

It includes an all-weather tennis court and play and fitness area on one of the greens. The other bowling green would be kept. There would also be gardens, including raised planters for growing food.

Planners point out in their report: “Whether the applicant would be able to obtain ownership of the site or permission of the site owner to implement the works are not material planning considerations.”

The club closed because of falling membership numbers.