The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
‘Major’ housing plans for site of fire-hit barracks
Development: Group wants to construct 86 flats
RUIN: The aftermath of the blaze which wrecked the HQ of Aberdeen University OTC.
A fire-hit former barracks in Aberdeen could be demolished to make way for the construction of 86 flats.
Developers Cater Group Ltd has advised the council that it plans to tender a “major proposal” to flatten the former site of the Aberdeen University Officers’ Training Corps, off King Street.
If approved by the city council, their application says the group will also construct suitable car parking and an amenity space at the spot near Seaton Park.
Last night, project coordinator Glen Smith said: “We want to ensure this new development is in keeping with the surroundings and trust it will provide much needed, top-quality flats in Aberdeen.
“It will provide an exciting entrance to King Street and the city centre.”
A public drop-in consultation will be held in the area to enable interested members of the public to learn more about the proposals.
They will be able to view the plans, offer feedback and ask questions of the appointed design team.
In a supporting statement, lodged alongside the application, Cater Group said: “Given the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and current advice issued by the Scottish Government on social distancing and restrictions on public gatherings, specific details of the date and venue for the public consultation event can’t be provided at this time.
“Confirmation of these details will be submitted to the council’s planning service, the community council and local ward members in due course, once current restrictions have been relaxed.”
The venue and date of the consultation is yet to be determined, but the public will be informed through the media with at least seven days’ notice.
Posters and leaflets will be distributed locally within public places, advertising the events and inviting the public to attend.
A fire tore through the former barracks in November of last year, prompting a joint investigation by the police and fire service.
The fire caused significant damage to both the interior and the exterior of the Roy Strathdee Building.