A long-awaited deep-clean of one of Aberdeen’s most historic monuments is expected to be completed today.
The 17th century Mercat Cross in the city’s Castlegate was the focal point for life in the Granite City in years gone by.
But the sandstone structure by John Montgomery has fallen into disrepair over recent years.
The city council has carried out the revamp as part of a 25-year city centre masterplan.
Deputy council leader Marie Boulton said ambitious plans were being put in place for Castlegate for the Christmas market being held there and on Broad Street this year.
She said: “It has been our ambition for sometime to clean up what is a really iconic part of Aberdeen’s heritage.
“This is all part the council strategy to breathe new life into the city centre, particularly the end of Union Street towards Castlegate.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of business body Aberdeen Inspired, said: “It’s important to keep our historic monuments sparkling as it helps to make the area more appealing to visitors.
“This is the latest in a range of projects in the city centre such as Union Street regeneration works and the creative lighting on St Nicholas Kirk Colonnade which have made a positive impact on the area.”
But opposition politicians have questioned the timing of the announcement, with the council elections less than a month away.
SNP infrastructure spokesman Michael Hutchison said: “I’m pleased to see that work on the Mercat Cross is finally underway but I can’t help but note that it’s almost a year since this was first announced yet it’s only just started in time for the election.
“This is a step in the right direction but the people of Aberdeen will once again be asking why has it taken so long to turn words into action – if we are really wanting to improve our city centre then such improvements shouldn’t take so long to deliver.”
An spokesman for Aberdeen City Council said: “The Mercat Cross at the Castlegate is one of Aberdeen’s most iconic monuments and we are in process of cleaning the stone at present.
“The Mercat Cross work is part of an ongoing programme of preserving the historic fabric of Aberdeen city centre.”
