A local hospitality group has been announced as the preferred operator of the multi-million pound Aberdeen market development.
Aberdeen City Council has agreed terms with The McGinty’s Group for the site, which is to be a destination venue featuring international-style food, drink, and a retail market.
The development will feature an ‘attractive’ market-style floorspace to create a destination venue with marketplace elements promoting local produce and goods alongside continental-style delicatessen, cafes, and food outlets.
The design will feature a mixture of small retail units alongside space for temporary and pop-up facilities to allow for increased variety and would be flexible to seasonal requirements. There will also be a flexible-use outside space on the Green which could be used for events or pop-up market space, the local authority added.
The development will improve pedestrian connectivity between Union Street and the bus and railway stations via The Green, whilst also enhancing Hadden Street and Market Street with urban realm improvements in and around The Green.
Demolition work has taken place on the former BHS building at the site and legal work is continuing in preparation for the next stage of the project. A revised planning application for the new market has been submitted.
Councillor Alex McLellan, convener of the finance and resources committee at Aberdeen City Council, said, “The market development will create a vibrant and exciting new destination for people to visit in the city centre, as well as create an improved connection between Union Street and the bus and train stations.
“I am pleased we have secured a local operator who has expertise in the hospitality industry, who will deliver a range of food and drink outlets, providing a boost to the local economy.”
