An application to transform McNeill’s into supported accommodation for nine people has been submitted to Glasgow City Council.

The bar in Torrisdale Street opened in 1965 as the Madeira before Lisbon Lion Billy McNeill bought it and renamed it.

The Evening Times has reported that the former Celtic captain offloaded the two-storey venue several years ago and has no financial interest in the hostel plan.

The application for planning permission states that the redevelopment will be led by a company known as Dundas Heritable Ltd.

It is understood the applicant had wanted to turn the 335 square metre site into a twelve-bed hostel but that number has since been reduced to nine beds.

A spokesman for the applicant said: “I can confirm that we have submitted an application for a nine-bedroom supported housing development.

“Sadly the days of working man pubs are drawing to a close and believe this development will be a small but worthy addition to the services available to people who find themselves in need in Glasgow.”

The spokesman added: “I can confirm that Billy McNeill has no interest in either the existing operation or the proposed development.

“We would be pleased to meet with the local community at any time to discuss our innovative proposals.”

A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said the application is expected to be considered by the planning committee in “late summer or early autumn”.

Comments on the planning application must be lodged with the council by 5pm on Monday, August 3.