Planner agreed that the proposals for two flats at 21A Tolbooth Street would have no effect on the vitality or viability of the local economy.

Work on the building, which is a C-listed structure, will see an original feature – namely the chimney – removed; an extension, wall and gate created; walls re-rendered; new windows, doors and roof lights put in; and the roof re-tiled.

However, structural reports suggested previous work on the chimney had resulted in “significant damage” and that it should therefore be removed as part of the redevelopment.

The two-storey building, which is opposite an entrance to the Mercat Shopping Centre, has been vacant for some time after being used as offices.

Case officer Martin Mackay noted that changes in a conservation area like the one in question were often controversial, but said the designs put forward would result in a “positive overall improvement on the visual appearance of the building”.