Controversial plans to put a modern copper-clad extension on the roof of Aberdeen Art Gallery have been put on hold amid claims that the design is “corporate vandalism”.
Aberdeen City Council wants to make a number of alterations to the grade A-listed building to protect its contents from water damage and improve the exhibition space.
Removal of the marble staircase is among the proposals.
Councillors at yesterday’s planning development meeting voted 9:4 to reject the plans. The matter will now be referred to the full council.
Councillor John Corall, who led calls to ditch the plans, said: “Why would we consider putting a portable cabin on the roof? That is what Joe Public is going to say.
“We have here a classic example of the difference between fashion and style. Style lasts and fashion is transitory.
“The public is horrified and there is no way that this is acceptable to the public. It is tantamount to vandalism.
“Too much damage has already been done to Aberdeen’s granite heritage and I can’t be party to this corporate vandalism.”
He said later he had seen “better looking byres” than the proposed extension.
Aberdeen Civic Society, artist Eric Auld and historian Diane Morgan have spoken out strongly against the plans.
Councillor Andrew Finlayson sought to defer a decision to allow architects to rework the design.
However, councillors voted in favour of refusal.
Historic Scotland will take the final decision on the upgrade of the Victorian-era art gallery, given its listed status.
Committee convener Ramsay Milne spoke in favour of the plans, including the roof extension.
He said the council should keep the marble staircase, given that it was one of the city’s most expensive assets.
He said: “I believe the functionality of the art gallery is now in jeopardy and we do need to move forward with that. Historic Scotland is keenly aware of this.
“It is very important that we have a roof that no longer leaks and copper has been used for domes in the city centre for many years.”
Seven people lodged official objections to the proposals, although many more had indicated their dislike of the plans at a consultation event, the committee heard.