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Plans to demolish Aberdeen Market approved

BBC Aberdeen MarketBBC
Aberdeen Market will be knocked down to make way for a new retail, office and leisure development

Plans have been approved to demolish Aberdeen Market to make way for new office, retail and leisure space.

Developer Patrizia said the project would inject "new vibrancy" into the area.

There have been strong objections from the retailers who currently trade in the market.

Shaun Hose of Patrizia said: “Today’s decision is very welcome after four years of working on proposals for this site."

The planned new building as it will be seen from Union Street
To the left of Caffe Nero, the planned new building as it will be seen from Union Street

The building dates back to the 1970s.

The developers want to build news shops, cafes and office space.

Combo Cafe underwent a major refurbishment shortly before the planning application was submitted.

Katarina Kardosova, who runs it, said: "It would be hard to move out of here as the high street is not affordable for normal people and family-run businesses like us."

Russell Borthwick, chief executive of Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce, said: "Against the current uncertain backdrop it's very encouraging to see that major inward investors still have confidence in our future by moving forward with ambitious projects in support of the Aberdeen city centre masterplan.

"Patrizia's market development will be the jewel in the crown of the Merchant Quarter and add to the new lease of life being enjoyed by that area including the incredible collection of Nuart street art on show."

'Growing demand'

Meanwhile, plans for more than 500 new homes in Aberdeen have also been approved.

The Cloverhill project is in the Bridge of Don area.

Developer Cognito Oak aims to build 550 homes on a site to the east of Ellon Road.

The company's Nigel Munro said: "Following the positive recommendation from the planners, we are pleased that councillors today voted unanimously in favour of granting us planning consent.

"Cloverhill will help meet the growing demand for homes in the Bridge of Don and the local authority's targets for affordable housing.

"The development will also provide much-needed community facilities and we look forward to continuing to work with the council to deliver a highly sought-after, inclusive, sustainable and low-carbon village in this attractive location."