Formal proposals have finally been presented to Aberdeen City Council to convert the unoccupied John Lewis building into a Go Karting facility, ending years of uncertainty regarding the building’s future.
The department store shut its doors in 2021, despite protests from customers after it had been situated in its George Street base for over three decades. The building later served as a Covid vaccination site.
The building was purchased by EP Properties, run by Zakir Issa, along with the adjoining Bon Accord Centre, last summer.
The building’s owners are seeking planning approval for an ambitious transformation of the 200,000 sq ft Norco House into a go-karting venue, with documents submitted to the council outlining the renovation plan.
If the proposals submitted to Aberdeen City Council receive approval, the five-story structure could become a new entertainment hub for the city.
The proposed attractions and activities include a go-kart track that would span two levels, occupying the majority of the building’s available area.
According to the plans, the ground floor will feature an arcade, a party area, and a lounge. Moreover, much of the area that previously housed clothing and craft supplies will be dedicated to an indoor bowling area with multiple lanes.
On the second and third floors, The go-kart track is proposed over both the second and third floors. Elevators will be removed, possibly suggesting karts will be able to navigate between the two floors via ramps.
The rooftop parking area will be closed to vehicles, but there are no plans to demolish the connecting bridge to the rest of the Bon Accord Centre.
Last June, when the go-karting project was revealed, national operator TeamSport was reported by the P&J to be considering a move into Aberdeen, having experienced considerable business from the city at its location in Dundee.
The announcement had sparked excitement last year when the P&J spoke to local residents. “These buildings need to be used – I think it would be great for the young ones,” said Brenda Schimanski, while racing enthusiast Jake Anthony Downie expressed enthusiasm, stating he would “be there every week” if it matches similar facilities.
However, some residents expressed reservations, with Graham Cooper suggested that “a go-karting track would be better suited to an industrial unit outwith the centre,” while Harry Duncan emphasised that “it’s shops we need, not this rubbish.”
The plans will now be scrutinised by council planning officials.
