Security has been tightened-up at an Aberdeen factory that has been repeatedly targeted by firebugs.
The owner of the Broadford Works was served with a dangerous building notice after a blaze took 50 firefighters more than 40 hours to extinguish last month.
It required the introduction of 24-hour patrols and increased security around the perimeter of the site at Maberly Road.
Councillor Ramsay Milne, convener of the city’s planning development management committee, said yesterday: “The 24-hour security is in place and most of the perimeter security is finished.
“Due to site restrictions, we are permitting a two-week extension to the dangerous building notice for the removal of the combustible materials.
“Council officers are happy with the progress made at the site as they appreciate that the first priority is the safety of the workforce undertaking this onerous task.”
Figures from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have shown that crews have been called out to the Broadford Works a total of 17 times in the last two years.
Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart said: “While I am pleased that this is now happening it is a bit like closing the stable door after the entire herd of horses has bolted.
“My hope is that the owner will get on with developing the site as that would help keep the ne’er-do-wells away.”