A group of community activists who took on a Scottish millionaire to save an A-listed Glasgow building have won their battle.

Owner Sir Arnold Clark had proposed to pull down part of the city’s Art Deco-style Botanic Gardens Garage in the city’s west end, to make way for a modern four-storey building of 35 flats, four mews cottages, retail space and a restaurant.

But the plans were strongly opposed by scores of local residents, who were desperate for the 100-year-old structure to be left intact.

And now, after a three-year battle, the plans have been scrapped by the Scottish Government

The decision was made after an independent reporter considered written evidence from all interested parties.

The historic property on Vinicombe Street, Hillhead, is one of the oldest surviving custom-built garages in Glasgow.

Built around 1912, it was designed by David Valentine Wyllie and has a distinctive facade of green and white glazed terracotta tiles.

Campaigners say its architecture, especially the facade, should be preserved, as it adds to the west end’s unique character.

Ann Laird, the Convener of the Friends of Glasgow West group, said campaigners were “over the moon” at the outcome.

She added: “We are absolutely overjoyed with the decision.

“Now we have had a positive outcome, and stopped the bad thing from happening, we need to find a solution to maintain the building.”

The plans – which proposed that a central section to the rear would be demolished and rebuilt – were narrowly approved by Glasgow City Council’s planning committee in February, subject to final approval from Historic Scotland.

The agency, which regulates the demolition of buildings in conservation areas, then referred Sir Arnold’s application to Scottish ministers for final approval.

An initial redevelopment attempt in 2007, which would have seen much of the structure knocked down, was also seen off by protesters.

Sir Arnold, who bought the property in 1968, had initially planned to demolish the structure, which is just off Byres Road.

However, following more than 1500 written objections from residents and local groups, his firm decided to abort the planned move.

Less than a year after the truce was called, Sir Arnold’s son, John Clark, announced revised plans by Glasgow architecture firm Keppie.

The latest defeated bid included a reduced number of flats proposed for the site and £1.5 million to restore the building’s ornate enamel-and-tile facade.

A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said: “We are aware of the decision the ministers have made and the council will now read the report and digest its findings.

“We will also meet with the owners of the site to hopefully chart a way forward for the future use of the building.”

Arnold Clark was not available for comment on the future of the property.