Businesses on one of Aberdeen’s busiest streets have raised concerns over plans to introduce “café culture” to the city amid worries over safety and deliveries.
Aberdeen City Council is carrying out a three-month trial, during which venues will be able to apply for a license to place chairs and tables outside.
The move follows requests from some business owners on Belmont Street, however several traders have been left dismayed by its introduction.
Owners and managers of a number of premises in the area, including Nandos, Revolution, Prohibition, Poldino’s and the Belhaven pubs, met yesterday to discuss their response to the trial, which they say was announced without any prior consultation.
They have opted to send a letter to Aberdeen City Council expressing their disappointment at the manner in which the trial has been implemented.
The scheme, which starts on August 3, will also apply to nearby Little Belmont Street and Gaelic Lane, and will require all three roads to be closed to almost all traffic, including delivery vehicles, from 11am to 6pm on weekdays.
Kevin McIntosh, the operating manager of the Epic Group, which owns the Priory nightclub in the middle of Belmont Street, said the move would cause major difficulties for his business.
“Delivery companies aren’t going to park at the end of the road and bring 16 kegs of lager all the way down Belmont Street,” he said.
“And from a health and safety point of view, the fire brigade and other emergency services will have trouble with access if there are chairs and tables out in the middle of the road during the day.”
Last night, an Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman defended the scheme.
She said: “This initiative for the city-centre was led by businesses through Aberdeen Inspired, and we have supported it by bringing it forward.
“The trial is aimed at creating a vibrant culture, making a better atmosphere and bringing more people into a safe area with outside café facilities.
“We welcome comments from all businesses as the initiative is a three-month trial, and we will measure the impact of the initiative after the trial period is over.”
A spokesman for Aberdeen Inspired said the organisation had liaised with most businesses in the area prior to the launch of the trial and would continue to consult with interested parties.