A plan to redevelop an office landmark on the M9 at Stirling has been approved by the council’s planning panel.

Ambassador Group will demolish the former offices of Scottish Amicable, and more recently Prudential, at Craigforth.

There are plans for new offices, retail space, 135 homes, a 150 bedroom hotel, care home, nursery and leisure facilities.

A separate application was agreed in October last year allows for an existing building on the north of the campus, Lomond View, to be used as a distillery.

The wider development will feature walking, cycling and jogging routes with public access to the riverside and the Craigforth Crag, around which the campus would be built.

Stirling Council leader Chris Kane said: “Craigforth is an iconic site, well known to the people of Stirling, particularly those who were employed by Prudential and Scottish Amicable in the past. This major development will allow future generations to form a relationship with one of the most scenic locations in the Stirling area.

“This is an ambitious and exciting proposal. It has the potential to make a significant contribution to the local economy, leading to the creation of important new businesses and employment opportunities, including the distillery at Lomond View.

“We also look forward to helping build sustainable and vibrant new communities and, as Stirling celebrates its 900th anniversary, adding to our tourist offering with a new hotel and leisure facilities.”

A building warrant has already been approved for the demolition of the building which was constructed in the 1970s and is no longer considered fit for purpose.

The ‘B’ listed Craigforth House, a former stately home that dates from the early 18th century, will be redeveloped as part of the proposals, potentially for the new hotel.

The panel received 17 representations in response to the proposals, 16 of which were objections.

Planning Permission in Principle has been granted for a five year period.