A derelict Victorian landmark in the heart of an Aberdeen park could finally be brought back to life.
Westburn House, in the middle of Westburn Park, was built in 1839 and was designed by the renowned architect Archibald Simpson, who helped to create some of the Granite City’s most historic buildings.
But the A-listed building – which has previously served as the home of Aberdeen Journal owner David Chalmers, a tea room and nursery – has lain vacant for the last 18 years, and fallen into disrepair.
Now councillors have approved plans by Elgin-based company Liberty Kids to turn it into a modern nursery, where youngsters will enjoy plenty of space to roam around outdoors.
Ilia Robertson, the director of the nursery firm, said: “Liberty Kids are delighted to be involved in such a fantastic project that will be of huge benefit to the local community.
“It will be great to see this significant listed building brought back to life in such a beautiful setting, for the benefit of all who use it.
“We pride ourselves on delivering high quality childcare and preschool education from birth to primary seven, the location is perfect to nurture children’s love of nature and the outdoors.”
Under the conditions attached to the planning permission, the cast-iron veranda of the stately home will be retained in the redevelopment, along with a number of other stipulations to preserve Westburn House’s historic legacy.
Local councillor Bill Cormie said: “Westburn House has been a very controversial over many years now in the time that it’s been sat empty.
“Sadly the work that’s needing done to it will cost millions, and it’s been clarted in graffiti, and has been completely fenced off, which is both unsightly and it blocks parking spaces.
“There have been several applications before, including the registrar several years ago, but nothing materialised.
“But now it’s been approved conditionally, so finally something is going to happen to this important building.”
A council report approving the plans said: “The repair and thereafter reuse of the building as a children’s nursery would have a positive impact on the condition of the building, the character and setting of Westburn Park and the wider conservation area.”
