Councillors are being urged to approve plans for a new “internationally-recognised” multimillion-pound concert venue in Aberdeen.
The £333million Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre would be built on the Rowett Institute on Greenburn Road, Bucksburn.
The development, which has been put forward by Henry Boot Ltd, would also include a hotel, an energy centre, and car parking amenities.
A report by council officers has recommended the planning development management committee approve the controversial plans, which would mean Strathcona House would be demolished.
In October, campaigners failed in a last-ditch attempt to salvage the building, which was first built opened in 1933 to house Aberdeen University medical and science students.
In a report from the planning team, councillors are told: “Given the ambition to create a nationally and internationally recognised venue which meets the requirements of exhibitors and performers and which has the flexibility to host a range of events simultaneously, it is considered that the unfortunate loss of Strathcona House and other significant buildings on site are essential to the potential success of the development.”
Last night, Aberdeen Donside MSP Mark McDonald said there remained questions over the new development.
He said: “The council have approved a master plan which will see the demolition of Strathcona House, which is a disappointing development.
“And while no one is disputing the need and benefits of a new exhibition centre, there’s a question over whether the trade off for this should be the loss of an important building which makes up part of this site.”
The proposals form part of the Rowett North masterplan which was approved by councillors earlier this year.
The new development will consist of a 484,375 sq ft exhibition and conference centre.
In addition, a 200-bedroom hotel would also be part of the facility.
The plans would also include an energy centre, which will convert waste to help power the centre.
The council’s finance convener Willie Young has previously said the venue could help lure some of the biggest names in music to the north-east.
The council’s planning committee meets on Thursday.