The Draft Project approved for two more years after being hailed as Aberdeen’s answer to famous ‘ruin bars’ of Budapest

Aberdeen’s Draft Project is being allowed to operate for another two years – after bosses highlighted its tourism potential as a “ruin bar”.

North-east hospitality kingpins PB Devco erected a large marquee in the hollowed-out remains of Bruce Miller’s music shop after buying the derelict site in 2020.

The Langstane Place spot was soon cleared up, and the beer tent became popular while Covid restrictions confined socialising to the outdoors.

Last summer, owner Stuart Clarkson approached the council for permission to make it a permanent part of the city centre.

Did plans go down well with neighbours?

But nearby residents offered a mixed reaction, with some arguing there is no longer any need for venues like The Draft Project since coronavirus rules have eased.

David Craik from the nearby Optima Financial Services said the tent should be pulled down “after life returns to normal”.

Bon Accord Square resident Gordon Mutch stressed that such marquees were only ever intended to be “temporary”.

And in the months that have passed since the application was lodged last June, the nation has largely emerged from the pandemic.

Why is Draft Project still needed?

However, Tinto architecture, representing PB Devco, argues the facility should be a part of the city’s long-term future.

A statement submitted to the local authority, formed in response to the complaints, says that the Draft Project employs 40 people.

Tinto goes on to hail the “distinctive architectural joyousness to the relatively simple proposals”.

The firm adds: “The run-down nature of the granite buttresses, with weeds growing out of cracks and pigeons feeling at home sitting atop, provides a rustic urban vibe that is very difficult to imitate in new constructions.

“The exposed brick boundary walls are a thing of beauty in the often-harsh grey granite streets of the city centre.

“The derelict space left by the demolitions is not only put to good use, but is also enhanced by the development.”

Does Draft Project have potential as a ‘ruin bar’?

Tinto lists examples of similar spaces being put to good use across the world.

They say the ‘ruin bars’ of Budapest “are an example that is best reflected in the existing granite frontage and the surrounding brick walls”.

And The Draft Project is also likened to the “pop-up container villages” in York, Newcastle and the trendy Camden area of London.

The firm says such spaces “can provide a welcome break from the often harsh, monotonous urban landscape”.

Tinto adds: “While borne out of Covid restrictions and providing customers with a safe and well-ventilated venue, the concept of ‘ruin bars’ such as the Draft Project is well established elsewhere and helps to attract residents and visitors alike.

“The development fits well with the metropolitan outlook which the city is striving to achieve.”

There are 47 tables spread across The Draft Project, with space for around 340 people.

The venue opens between 4pm and 10pm from Monday to Thursday, and noon to 10pm from Friday to Sunday.

What did the council say?

Aberdeen City Council’s planning department stopped short of granting the permanent permission requested.

Sealing its future for only the next two years will allow the local authority to “review” its impact on the area.

You can see the plans here.

PB Devco runs various other venues in Aberdeen, including Soul Bar, The College, Vovem, The Howff and The Queen Vic.

The Draft Project is licensed as part of The Howff.