An application for alteration work at the entrance to an A-listed building as part of the Marischal Square development has been recommended for approval by city council planners.
The company behind the £107million project is seeking listed building consent to remove the steps and balustrade at Provost Skene’s House and re-position a stone archway.
Aberdeen City Council’s head of planning Margaret Bochel has advised councillors to support the application at a meeting next week, subject to consultation with Historic Scotland.
However, the local authority has been hit by a wave of protest from members of the public.
More than 90 letters were submitted raising concerns about the impact on Provost Skene’s House, regarded as one of the city’s historic and architectural jewels.
Some local councillors reported being “bombarded” with angry e-mails, while there has also been an outcry on social media.
However, Muse Developments has insisted the work will actually improve visibility and access to the property, in line with views expressed by residents during a public consultation.
A spokesman said the building itself was “sacrosanct” – and there had never been any suggestion of making material changes.
Provost Skene’s House dates back to the 16th century, but the wall and steps were 20th century additions.
The archway is described as 17th century, but council planners say it was moved from Union Terrace Gardens to Provost Skene’s House “post-1930”.
Under the proposals, the archway would be moved – essentially at a 90-degree angle – to adjoin the southern corner of the building and provide a new entrance to the Marischal Square site from Flourmill Lane.
In her report to members of the planning development management committee, Ms Bochel has recommended a “willingness to approve”.
However, Historic Scotland would also have to be notified, providing the agency with an opportunity to “call-in” the application for its own determination if necessary.
In a submission to the council, Historic Scotland has said it is “generally content” with the proposals, but has suggested that more information is provided on “finer details”.
In her conclusion, Ms Bochel says: “The proposal would have a negligible impact on the original fabric of the listed building, relating principally to the removal and re-siting of non-original features.”
She added that the redevelopment of the former council headquarters, St Nicholas House, as a hotel, office and retail complex would allow for “a new and enhanced setting” for Provost Skene’s House.
“Taking these matters into account, the proposed works are not considered to result in adverse impact on the building’s architectural or historic interest,” Ms Bochel said.
Muse was granted planning permission for the Marischal Square plans earlier this month.
A request from Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart for the Scottish Government to “call in” the plans was rejected last week.