An Aberdeen conservation group, which is battling to save a decrepit A-listed building, designed by the city’s most famous architect, has submitted its plans to council bosses.
The Save Westburn House group has formulated proposals to take over the Archibald Simpson-designed property in Westburn Park and bring it back to its former glory.
One of the ideas would see the transformation of the 1839 Victorian building into a museum honouring the world-famous architect.
Derelict for nearly 20 years, the house has fallen into near-disrepair with the roof recently beginning to cave in.
In April, council chiefs put the property on the market.
An online statement by the group yesterday confirmed its members would be trying to raise funds locally for the plan.
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It read: “Today, after months and months of hard work and research, our proposal has gone forward to Aberdeen City Council.
“Using your feedback and the best heritage and business advice, our proposal document hopefully highlights a plan, firstly to save the building, then secondly to lay out a long-term sustainable future plan.
“The community have spoken up about a place that they value. This enthusiasm presents an opportunity for regeneration and community engagement that should now be grasped.
“We will continue with our fundraising campaign. The Westburn Development Trust have launched a “conservation led” renovation of the house.
“This first stage ‘Arrest the decay’ will address the significant damage.
“We’ll shortly be approaching Aberdeen’s residential and business community to take control of the deterioration by offering donations to help fund stage one of this project.
“This crowdfunding campaign is about how you can support the trust and get the building up and running as soon as possible. Raising funds via crowdfunding will provide the capital needed to prepare for essential works and ultimately make it fit for its new future purpose.
Midstocket and Rosemount councillor Bill Cormie said: “This is a very small group that have worked wonders on this project.
“They are dedicated and passionate and have worked incredibly hard to meet this schedule and that is a credit to them.
“I hope for everyone this project manages to go ahead and for goodness sake let’s get Westburn House back to its glory days.”
