Ambitious plans to transform an historic Aberdeen factory into a multi-million pound “urban village” went on display to the public for the first time yesterday.
The event at North-East Scotland College’s (NESCOL) Gallowgate campus showcased the tentative proposal for the Broadford Works, which is broadly in line with the planning permission granted to former owner Ian Suttie.
The site has been earmarked for a £50million redevelopment for years, with Mr Suttie receiving consent for more than 500 homes, commercial units, restaurants and a nursery.
Developers Ferness Investment Holdings has lodged a new proposal of application notice outlining a bid for 890 units, including affordable housing and student flats, as well as nurseries, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Workers are already working at the 19th century site, with demolition started on some buildings.
Display boards at the exhibition yesterday traced the long history of the buildings and revealed which parts would be demolished if plans go ahead.
The developers also pointed to other urban developments in the UK, like the Liverpool Tea Factory, which they have taken inspiration from for the north-east site.
The former Richards factory closed its doors in 2004 and has since become a frequent target for vandals and firebugs.
It is hoped the new development could lead to the creation of new jobs in construction and in the leisure facilities created.
John Scordid, project director of architects Cooper Cromar, said they wanted to build something which would enhance Aberdeen while retaining key parts of the city’s industrial heritage.
He said: “The chimneys of Broadford Works are a big part of the skyline of Aberdeen so we want to keep them.
“I would stress that the plans are very preliminary just now so we are very keen to hear from people in Aberdeen on what they think.”
Anne MacIntosh, who worked at Richard’s for 15 years until 2001, said she welcomed the plans and hoped a museum would be added.
Attending the exhibition, she said: “It’s been an eyesore in the city for far too long it’s really important we get this moving now.”
Another attendee, Isabel Craik, who lives in nearby Spring Gardens, was generally in favour but had some concerns about an increase in traffic.
Planning permission in principle will now be applied for before further consultation is held.