The long-awaited vision for the transformation of Aberdeen city centre received a mixed response yesterday.
John Michie, owner of the Charles Michie’s Pharmacy on Union Street, said he supported plans to pedestrianise part of the city’s main thoroughfare.
“I’ve backed that for many years, through the City Centre Association. I personally want to see it go through the Castlegate and link to the beach,” he said.
“I welcome the open mindedness that is in the masterplan. I think there’s a few gems in it.”
However, he raised fears about the city’s forthcoming western bypass sucking people out of the city centre, and believed more work should be done on transport links.
“I think what is in there would be nice to have. What might be missing is what we need to have,” Mr Michie said.
Catherine McKeown, who works at BMJ Architects Aberdeen and is president of the Aberdeen Society of Architects, said: “Alongside members of the public I got involved at every opportunity offered.
“I attended city talks, public exhibitions, participated in consultations, and have been eagerly awaiting the outcome of the process.
“Hopefully a new vision for the city is something that everyone can unite behind.
“We all have a common goal to create an energetic and forward thinking city that Aberdonians would be proud of. We are all watching this space.”
Lewis Macdonald, Labour MSP for the north-east, said: “The city centre masterplan provides a welcome framework for future development.
“The city council will certainly want to engage with citizens in order to move this forward, and to seek areas of agreement where early progress can be made.
“There are many positive ideas here, and I would particularly highlight proposals for new housing in the Castlegate area and refurbishment of Marischal and Virginia courts.
“A living city needs people who live there, as well as those who come into town for events, nights out, work or shopping.
“The proposal for new homes and businesses on Queen Street is also welcome, but I would urge the city council to work closely with Police Scotland to ensure that the police service continues to have adequate headquarters facilities in the city in years to come.”
Alan Donnelly, Torry and Ferryhill councillor, said: “I’m certainly opposed to the pedestrianisation of Union Street because it will affect the quality of life of my constituents in Ferryhill.
“It’s a dream, but Aberdeen is not Edinburgh. I’m not happy with it. With the whole council, we’ve got to debate it.”