A training centre to help youths into employment in Dundee has been given the go-ahead after a year-long planning battle.
The Point Church, a registered charity, also now faces a hefty legal bill after the Scottish Government overturned Dundee City Council’s refusal.
However, the proposal to turn a former printing factory into a training, teaching and counselling facility at 3 Lintrathen Street can now go ahead.
The area is largely residential but also contains a council depot and parking area.
The volunteer-run, mixed-use centre will offer training, teaching in music and film, counselling, and a place to help youths find employment and housing.
A spokesman for the Point said: “We can now complete work on the building and look forward to serving our community and city.
“We are so grateful for everyone’s support.”
Originally Dundee City Council planners had recommended the plans for approval with conditions however, councillors voted against this advice in the face of 49 letters of objection from neighbouring residents.
Their concerns included public anxiety about potential antisocial behaviour, noise disturbance, the impact on privacy, road and pedestrian safety, increased demand for on-street parking as well as claims it was an inappropriate location for the development.
After the appeal was granted, both the appellant and the council demanded costs from the other side, but both were refused.
Scottish Government reporter Alastair Edwards said: “There is no compelling evidence to suggest that the proposed facility would result in increased crime in the area.
“The proposed development would not harm the environmental quality of the area, would have sufficient parking provision, and would not be a detriment to the road safety.”