Developers behind a new multimillion-pound exhibition and conference centre planned for Aberdeen said yesterday the facility would be unrivalled in Scotland.
David Anderson, managing director of Henry Boot Developments, said the complex near the city’s airport at Dyce would be superior to similar venues in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
The proposed replacement for the existing venue at Bridge of Don includes increased space, a four-star hotel and car parking facilities.
Henry Boot was selected as the city council’s preferred development partner for the Aberdeen University-owned site near the Rowett Institute.
Mr Anderson said: “Our expectation is that it will be by far the most modern facility of its kind, it will outclass a lot of other facilities, simply because it will be a lot more up-to-date.
“It will enable Aberdeen to build on its reputation as a major conference and exhibition destination, but will also bring economic benefits to the city.”
He stressed the design of the complex was still at an early stage, and pledged the public would be given the opportunity to have a say during the planning process.
Mr Anderson added: “There has been quite a lot of dialogue with the council’s planning department, but there will be extensive consultation, more than you would expect for a normal planning application.”
Under the terms of the deal, the local authority will enter into a 35-year lease.
The council said when the deal was announced that it would underwrite up to £7.5million a year, but officials expect to pay about £1.5million after income from naming rights and private investment is factored in.
Council leader Barney Crockett said the new facility would be a “world ranking” centre.
He added: “I think we play in a world league and that’s what we have to measure up to – I don’t think of us as being in competition with other Scottish cities.”
Mr Crockett also played down fears from opposition councillors over the potential risk involved.
He said: “The key thing for people to understand is this is a business city, and everything relies on business agreements.
“It will not be a reckless commitment of public resources.”