A north-east MSP has appealed directly to the bosses of two companies behind the controversial Marischal Square development to look again at the possibility of revising the proposals.
Kevin Stewart, the SNP member for Aberdeen Central, called on Muse Developments Ltd regional director for Scotland Stephen Turner and Aviva Group chief executive officer Mark Wilson to rethink the hotel, office and retail plans for Broad Street.
Councillors voted down a bid to halt the scheme by 22-21 on March 5 amid angry scenes as objectors and the local media were shut out of a large portion of the full council meeting.
Campaigners have vowed to continue their fight against the £107million project, which they believe will overpower surrounding A-listed buildings Provost Skene’s House and Marischal College while leaving the taxpayer to foot the bill for any unlet units.
However, backers Muse say it will be a “world class” development that will bring hundreds of jobs to the area and help regenerate the east end of the city centre.
In his letters to Muse and Aviva, Mr Stewart said: “Aberdeen residents have been very vocal in the press, letters and social media as they believe the council have not listened to their requests for something more in line with the keeping of the area.
“The public also feel there has been a lack of transparency and wish to see the final plans being published in full, including the use of 3D projections.
“I believe it would make sound business sense for you to listen to the concerns and look at alternatives to the proposed buildings on the site so as not to block the view of the historic buildings that are located there.”
Muse is already carrying out preparatory work on site, and expects to begin construction “in earnest” soon. The developer said after the council decision earlier this month that the decision would allow for negotiations with businesses keen to book space in the scheme.
The property firm said the reaction from businesses looking to move in was “extremely encouraging”. A spokesman for Muse said yesterday that the company has replied to Mr Stewart to say that Mr Turner has been out of the country on holiday.
Campaigners, meanwhile, have also been in touch with Muse and Aviva as they continue to plan their next move.