KNIGHT Property Group has begun demolition works on the rear of The Capitol as part of its £30million plan to redevelop the iconic building in Aberdeen.
The 12-week demolition phase involves the removal of the rear auditorium section, latterly used as two nightclubs.
Part of the process will be by hand, due to the close proximity of adjacent properties, with other sections being removed by mechanical means. More than 90% of the demolished materials will be recycled and diverted from landfill to meet with BREEAM guidelines.
Aberdeen City Council approved the commercial property developer’s plans in September 2013 for the restoration, renovation and extension of the building to create prime office space for up to 700 personnel, covering approximately 75,000 square feet.
James Barrack, director of Knight Property Group, said, “The building has been in a state of disrepair for five years. Starting the demolition works is a milestone and we are working closely with our contracted partners to ensure the iconic structure is brought back to its former splendour.
“We have planned the process accordingly and consulted with Historic Scotland to ensure it is carried out with the utmost care and attention.”
As part of the redevelopment, Knight Property Group will install an escalator to link the refurbished art deco front of house with the new-build office development to the rear, designed to incorporate stonework, glass and curtain walling.
The exterior of the building fronting Union Street will be restored, paying specific attention to the former canopy, signage and stonework.
Mr Barrack added, “I’m pleased that Knight Property Group is playing a role in the regeneration of Union Street and we hope this is the first of a number of significant projects in the city centre. I believe we must offer companies the best options to accommodate personnel otherwise we are at risk of them looking elsewhere.”
