The castle had been a hall of residence since 1955

Developers have been given the go-ahead to convert Clyne Castle into one and two bedroom apartments.

For nearly 50 years the Grade Two listed property and its more modern outbuildings have been used as a hall of residence.

But the castle, which borders Clyne Gardens, has seen better days and councillors have unanimously approved the scheme.

It is considered that the proposal would respect and be sympathetic to the character of the site Swansea planners

A handful of locals opposed to the planning application said Clyne Castle would be better used as a conference or education centre and the main road leading to it was too narrow for extra traffic.

There were also concerns that new housing planned for adjoining land would be out of character.

Members of Swansea's development control committee visited the site before making a decision due to the controversy.

There has been a house on the site of Clyne Castle since 1791 but there have been additions and changes over the years.

Swansea University bought the castle in 1955 and built additional accommodation to make it home for up to 300 students each term.

However, the castle now lies empty as new halls have been built elsewhere and Swansea Council says private investment would secure its future upkeep.

As well as converting the castle into 17 apartments, developer Regalian Clyne Limited was this week also granted planning consent to demolish the refectory and outbuildings and replace them with 14 two to five storey homes.

The coach house within the grounds will be converted into three town houses.

The council's planning department said strict conditions would be imposed to protect the look and setting of the castle.