The Beast from the East took another bite out of Aberdeen yesterday as a popular shopping centre was forced to shut.
Union Square took the decision to close yesterday due to the weather conditions.
Located on Guild Street and Market Street, the development serves as a transport hub connecting Aberdeen’s railway station and bus station.
In a statement a spokesperson said: “Due to the effects of the high winds, we will remain closed until further notice.
“The safety of our customers remains of paramount importance to us and we will continue to keep you updated.”
— Union Square (@UnionSqAberdeen) March 1, 2018
Many city shoppers, not knowing of the closure, were bewildered when they were turned away by security at the centre’s front doors.
“It’s not exactly 10 feet of snow – there is a lot in the country there’s not much going on in the city” said Ross Weatherby from Fyvie.
He added: “If people want to go shopping and folk have gone to work in the shops well open the doors and let them in.”
Mary McLaughlin, 67, was just popping into town for some messages: “I think it’s a bit over the top.
“Surely they don’t have to close the whole thing – but better to be safe than sorry, wouldn’t want anyone to get hurt.”
Aberdeen plumber James Dalgarno couldn’t believe the decision made by the shopping centre.
“It’s bizarre, it’s health and safety gone to far.”
Marks and Spencer’s and TX Maxx were the only retailers within the complex to remain open despite the conditions.
Brogan Carol, Operations Manager at River Island in the shopping centre said: “Communication came down last night, but it wasn’t quite clear that the whole centre was shut. Seeing people in the morning getting turned away weren’t too happy or best pleased.”
Although Carol was optimistic about the closure: “This won’t stop customers coming into town. When most kids get told schools are off, that’s the first thing, lets go shopping.
“They will hit Bon Accord, Trinity and the High Street.”
Police seal off Aberdeen bus station for public safety
The adjacent bus station to Union Square was also cordoned off by police yesterday.
Safety concerns grew as a roof panel became loose above the station.
All services from the station were diverted to Guild Street.
