Residents of an award-winning West End block of flats are trying to scupper a proposal to turn one of the apartments into student accommodation.
The flats at 5 Balgay Road were built in the 1970s and won a prize from the Saltire Society for their design.
West One Properties is seeking a House in Multiple Occupation licence for one of the properties, which has had an extra bedroom added to allow up to three people to live there.
The application is due to be considered at a city council licensing committee meeting on Thursday, but nine residents have written letters of objection.
They claim that approval would open the way to the “potential downgrading” of the building.
“The possibility of further HMO applications would reduce the property to just another block of student flats,” they said.
“The effect of increased traffic and noise would be detrimental to the building, which is historically occupied by elderly residents. Approval will adversely affect the ambience of the building.”
Lee Chadwick, of West One Properties, has responded by saying: “I would like to reassure owners, family members andtenants that I would never plan to invest in a property with the intention of downgrading the development at the same time.
“I can reassure the residents there is no intention of turning this block into a student block.”
He said the flat concerned had been bought with the idea of renting it to either three student nurses or doctors training or working at Dundee University or Ninewells Hospital.
“I am aware by the level of support to the objection and the reference to the Saltire Society that most residents have been there since the development’s inception and are proud of its heritage.
“I have invested on upgrading the property to a very high standard. It would not be my intention to invest heavily into a property and rent out to tenants that would mistreat the flat or the block.”
It is understood there are no HMOs in the immediate surrounding area and Mr Chadwick reckons council policies would allow up to six.