PLANS to repurpose the Keiller Centre site have been tipped to breathe new life into Dundee city centre.
Keiller Quarter – a mix of new student homes, commercial space, and public realm – has been announced by building owners, Dundee 1881 Ltd. This is a special purpose vehicle set up to purchase and invest in the future of the Keiller Centre.
The repurposing of the centre, which is said to have been ‘failing both financially and structurally’ for some time, follows years of decline and numerous attempts to promote the centre for other uses.
New development has also been hailed as a significant opportunity to reinstate the historical thoroughfare, as well as introduce new high-quality private and public realm – including greenspaces and lighting – and commercial space.
With a rapidly increasing student population, Dundee is facing a shortage of high-quality accommodation.
The proposals will serve to support Dundee and Angus College’s proposals to relocate its current campus at Dundee Kingsway to a new facility on the site of the Wellgate Shopping Centre.
Two public consultation events will take place ahead of the submission of an application for planning permission. These will be held on Wednesday 29th January and Thursday 27th February 2025.
A spokesperson for Dundee 1881 Limited said, “These exciting proposals will serve to repurpose the Keiller Centre, breathing new life into Dundee city centre through the delivery of a vibrant urban quarter. Keiller Quarter will include much-needed student accommodation, commercial uses and high-quality public realm, supporting local education and stimulating the local economy.
“After taking stock following our purchase, and trying other initiatives, we recognised that there was no realistic option other than repurposing the Centre, which offers the best option for the site and for the city centre. The development will re-establish a sense of place at this location, as well as acting as a catalyst for regeneration, enhancing one of the city’s oldest thoroughfares and bringing new vitality to the area.
“Our proposals are fully in accordance with the Dundee Strategic Investment Plan 2050, which sets out a long-term vision and identifies a wide variety of opportunities, including doubling the number of residents within the recognised town centre area, and doubling the number of visitors and visitor spend in the next 10 years. We look forward to engaging with the local community and other key stakeholders as we consult in advance of the submission of a planning application.”
