The objection comes as 56three Architects said the building “has been assessed to be of low importance”.

A statement on behalf of the developer by 56three Architects for 66 flats involves the demolition of the three-storey building.

The building was designed by John Duncan Macleod and Victor James de Spiganovicz and built around 1907 as the institute which was established for social, recreational and educational benefits, the Herald reports.

The planning application was submitted to the City of Edinburgh Council, and the Coburn Association consequently lodged an objection on the grounds it “appears to fail to comply with key policies”.

The association said: “While the site is appropriate for redevelopment in principle, the proposal’s excessive scale, poor design quality, and loss of distinctive existing buildings raise serious concerns.

“The five-storey frontage block is too tall for its context, and the overall massing, especially in conjunction with adjacent proposals, risks overwhelming the surrounding townscape and conservation areas.”

The developer’s statement currently being considered by planners said: “The building on Ratcliffe Terrace is the former Causewayside Lads Institute and has been assessed to be of low importance.

“A report of valuation was also commissioned by the client which concludes that the building is in poor condition, with a market value of nil in the current market.”