Govanhill residents felt a huge sense of relief after the Parkview Hotel for homeless people at 72-74 Queens Drive was refused a licence as a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) at an appeal hearing in the Burgh Court Hall last month.

Alistair McKever, Parkview owner, had submitted an application in November 2006. It was refused and the August appeal against this decision was rejected by the court.

The police told the court that more than 100 crimes relating to the hotel and its residents had been logged. The granting of a licence to the hotel would create more public disorder.

At the appeal hearing there were many objections from Community Councils, Glasgow City Councillors, MSPs, Strathclyde Police and residents.

The hotel owner’s agent appealed on the grounds that two ground floor flats adjacent to the hotel, are separate and have nothing to do with the hotel. This was rejected when it was revealed that if the flat occupants had problems they would have to use the Parkview reception. The fire alarm system also was linked between the flats and the hotel.

Southside Central Councillor Danny Alderslowe, one of many opponents,  said, ‘At last, common sense has prevailed.’

Gavin McNae, Chairperson of Crosshill and Govanhill Community Council said, ‘I am really happy with the result.’

Prior to the appeal, around seven people had received threatening letters stating that if they gave evidence against the hotel and it lost, then the hotel would sue them.

Laura Alexander, Secterary of Crosshill and Govanhill Community Council had received such a letter. She said, ‘I was shocked at how far they were willing to go to get a licence.’

Andrew Hunter, of lawyers Harper MacLeod, who represented Mr McKever said, ‘My client is obviously very disappointed with the decision not to grant an HMO licence, even though we had presented that the two flats will be used in a different fashion. Once we receive the letter of explanation as to why it was rejected, then we may appeal.’

Under law, the hotel has 28 days to appeal.