A national public body for theatres has backed the decision to spruce-up an iconic Aberdeen building – but said only the finest tradesmen should be used.
Last week, plans were approved to clean the granite facade of Aberdeen’s A-listed Music Hall.
In approving the application, planners said the proposed cleaning method would help “maintain the appearance of the building and preserves its special character”.
Tom Clarke, of the Theatres Trust, wrote to the council before a decision was issued, and stated that the trust was “not formally notified despite this falling within our role as a statutory consultee.”
He wrote: “The Trust has commented on a few proposals of this nature recently, for example at the Noel Coward Theatre in London and Richmond Theatre.
“We are supportive of such works as they help maintain the building and remove accumulations of material and substances which over time could harm the fabric of the building as well as improving the visual appearance of the building.
“It is important that reputable contractors with relevant experience are engaged for these works, and on that basis we agree with the Music Hall’s approach.”
Aberdeen Performing Arts (APA), which operates the facility, applied to Aberdeen City Council for permission to clean the well-known Union Street venue.
In their decision report, council planners wrote : “The Music Hall recently underwent a multi-million-pound internal refurbishment and reconfiguration programme.
“To complement these works, APA now seeks permission for the cleaning of external stonework at the venue to remove the accumulated, patchy soiling and staining.”