Phone company O2 had hoped to put a mast in the clock tower of the Barony Chambers, in Kirkintilloch.

However, East Dunbartonshire Council's development and environment committee decided to reject the proposal at their meeting last week.

Committee vice-convener Councillor John Dempsey said: "I was concerned about this proposal, as were many local people and traders.

"It was important that we listened to people's concerns about health and safety, and about the appropriateness of using the building for this purpose, before reaching a decision."

Over 400 people signed a petition opposing the application.

The petition was launched by shop owner Jan Walker.

Her gift shop, From Angelina's, is based on the ground floor of Barony Chambers.

She said: "This is fantastic news. I am over the moon.The council has been so supportive during all of this. I thank all the
councillors for coming to this decision."

"I'm sure members of the public will be as delighted as I am."

Barony Chambers is one of the district's oldest buildings and dates back to 1814.