Mill conversion shows ‘confidence’ in Dundee

THE multimillion-pound development of a former jute mill complex shows “confidence” in Dundee’s future, according to the mill founder’s great-great-grandson.

Edward Baxter, 57, visited t he Constable Street complex, which is being turned i nto a hotel and serviced apartments.

His great-great-grandfather Edward opened the mill with his father William in the 19th Century.

Work to transform the dilapidated former Bell and North Mills has been under way for more than a year.

Original features, including the iconic Bell Tower modelled on the Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, are being retained.

The mills are being converted into two hotels to be run by Focus Hotels Management.

Hotel Indigo Dundee will boast 102 guest rooms, while the Staybridge Suites will have 85 serviced apartments.

About 90 jobs will be created at the two hotels and there are more than 100 labourers, electricians, builders and carpenters working on the redevelopment.

Mr Baxter, whose family founded the mills in 1822, said he was delighted the properties are being brought back to life.

He said: “It’s a bold statement by the developers and their confidence in Dundee’s future.”

Mr Baxter, who lives near Largoward, said he “knocked on the door” of site manager George Clark to introduce himself after work started.

He said: “I was just a boy when it closed so don’t remember it. But it’s an incredibly exciting project – it’s going to be a real landmark for Dundee.”

The mills were closed down in 1978 and Mr Clark said the redevelopment has been a painstaking process.

The hotels are expected to open next year.

Edward Baxter