Plans to use a replica tramcar as a tearoom in Glasgow's south side have been refused by council bosses.

Marco Giannasi, of the Battlefield Rest, was looking to try the unusual idea for five years to help boost tourism.

The tram would have been stationary on a former tram stop which is now used a public footway outside the popular B-listed restaurant.

If given the go-ahead, the tearoom would have also been used as a performance space.

There were no public objections and five letters in of support of the plans.

Council officials said the replica tramcar, from 1915, would 'obscure' the front of the building in their refusal.

A report by Glasgow City planners stated: “The siting of the proposed replica tram would obscure the frontage of the category B-listed building, in a way that would not have been the case with the original use of the property.

“While the structure was originally a tram stop, the trams would have only temporarily paused in front of the building before continuing their journey.

“The council has a requirement to consider whether the proposal would preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the B-listed building.

“Given the prominent location proposed, in front of the main elevation facing down Battlefield Road, and the lack of fine detail of the design, the proposal would serve to harm the character and appearance of the B-listed Building and its setting.”

The original idea to open the tearoom for a temporary period of five-years was advised by the planning department in view of the pending redevelopment of the adjacent former Victoria Infirmary.