A 1970s office block could be converted into dozens of new Aberdeen city centre flats.
Ruby House, just off Silver Street, has been used as government offices and as the local home of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).
But now only one of its eight suites is occupied – and that is only on a short-term basis.
The four-storey building was sold at auction last June after being put on the market about two years ago.
How would Ruby House be turned into flats?
English developers Mandale Homes have formed plans to turn it into a block of 65 flats.
The concrete structure, designed in the “brutalist” style, would be divided into three one-bedroom studio apartments, 49 one-bedroom flats and 13 with two bedrooms.
There would be a 32-space car park, and a bicycle storage area.
More residents ‘will make city centre a more energetic place’
Architects ELG Planning quote the council’s masterplan ambitions for the city centre in seeking approval – with the desire to create “good quality housing” in the area.
They add that the proposal will “encourage the promotion of Aberdeen city centre as an energetic place and assist in strengthening the city centre economy”.
Previous plans set precedent for Ruby House
The developers have highlighted the recently approved scheme to turn nearby Denburn House, overlooking Union Terrace Gardens, into a hotel and apartment block.
And Mandale had plans approved to turn the Custom House building on Guild Street into apartments rubber-stamped in 2019.
What will happen to children’s charity?
The NSPCC’s lease at Ruby House is due to expire next June, which should give bosses plenty time to secure a new base.
Charity champion Esther Rantzen has visited the staff there a number of times over the years to express her support.
If the plans for Ruby House are endorsed the most obvious beneficiaries could be nearby bars Under the Hammer and The Globe Inn, along with the recently opened BarBelow in Golden Square.
But it could also be the perfect spot for fans of the arts, just a stone’s throw from the Music Hall, Aberdeen Art Gallery and His Majesty’s Theatre.
