A major redevelopment of an Aberdeen shopping complex has taken another significant step forward.
The owners of Bon Accord and St Nicholas centres are planning to expand the facility out to George Street.
Included in the proposals would be an extension, encompassing nearly 9,500sq ft, which would include shops, offices and restaurants and food outlets.
Developers, BMO Real Estate Partners, have also said there is potential for a hotel, flats and serviced apartments.
Now, the firm has confirmed they will formally lodge a planning application at the end of this month.
Last night, Joanne Wilkes, head of in-town retail at the firm, said: “Today’s agreement with city council officers on the planning application processing timetable is an important step forward for our proposals.
“These have the potential to transform and revitalise the George Street area within the historic heart of the city.
“We are committed to the vision of the city centre masterplan – to support and actively encourage a vibrant and sustainable city centre economy.
“And our proposals will significantly help to deliver on that vision by providing new and exciting retail, business and leisure space in the heart of the city.
“We are also continuing to develop a partnership with the city council on the potential to improve the pedestrian environment at Upperkirkgate/Schoolhill.
“And we have been progressing discussions with the council’s city centre masterplan team and Scottish Futures Trust to explore future collaborations to help to deliver George Street and other key city centre improvement initiatives.
“Our plans have received tremendous support from local people and key stakeholders through our various consultation events, and we look forward to working with them as our application progresses through the planning process.”
It follows a consultation into the plans, including an exhibition in August, which was attended by more than 150 people.
One of the artists impressions that went on display showed a glass roof covering the George Street entrance.
It is expected city planners will make a decision on the scheme by late July.
