Heritage chiefs have welcomed news that an historic Aberdeen department store could reopen as a steak house in time for Christmas.
Esslemont & Macintosh closed the doors of its Union Street store a decade ago, ending 134 years of trading and resulting in the loss of 107 jobs.
The lot has remained vacant since the demise of the popular shop when owners Owen Owen went administration.
The building itself has been listed as a category C building of historical importance since 2013 but had started to become dilapidated.
Local councillor Michael Hutchison welcomed the proposed opening of the Miller and Carter steakhouse in the premises.
He said:“It’s always good to see a new business coming to Aberdeen and especially to Union Street.
“Hopefully this will help to bring some life back to Union Street
“That building has seen better days so hopefully this can help bring it back.
“It is important we take some pride in Union Street and I am sure the opening of the restaurant will help a lot.
“It is always welcome to hear about new jobs coming to Aberdeen as they are needed at the moment.”
Dustin MacDonald, chairman of Aberdeen City Centre Community Council was equally pleased by the opening.
He added: “The building has been worked on for a while now but it is good to hear that the steakhouse will open.
“It was starting to look a bit dilapidated so it will be nice to see it opened.
“Aberdeen has some really good restaurants so it will be nice to see another one opening in the city centre.
“I’m sure it will bring some much needed job opportunities to the city as well.”
Steakhouse chain Miller and Carter operates restaurants across the UK.
