The developers of a proposed seven-storey block of student flats in Aberdeen city centre have been told councillors are “minded to approve” their application.
The news emerged after questions were answered on car parking and contributions.
The authority’s planning committee met yesterday to decide on Downing Students’ application to construct a 374-unit building on John Street, near the Woolmanhill halls, on the site of the former Ambassador Snooker Club.
George Street Community Council and Aberdeen Civic Society were among groups objecting to the proposal.
But a fierce debate followed when members were informed the developer contribution to the 75ft-tall scheme would be merely £3,000 towards the multimillion-pound Union Terrace Garden renovation and include no car club parking spaces.
Committee member, Jennifer Stewart, asked: “What will £3,000 purchase for UTG? It seems like a very minor contribution.”
George Street and Harbour member, Jean Morrison, questioned whether they should ask the developers for a larger sports and leisure contribution to the Cruyff Court football pitches under construction nearby.
Committee convener, Ramsay Milne, responded the committee would agree they were “minded to approve” the development as long as council officers sought further answers on contributions and parking.
But Lower Deeside member Marie Boulton added: “We have to be careful that we aren’t seen to be holding developers to ransom.”