IMAGES of a new urban park worth millions of pounds in Aberdeen’s Queens Street region have been made available for the first time.
This street is part of several local zones being considered for renovation, and artist impressions reveal the potential changes the area could undergo.
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The proposals feature a sensory garden, fresh seating and vegetation, an area for entertainers, and a pathway for walking and cycling from Broad Street to King Street.
It’s anticipated that the two-year building project might start in the summer of next year, with the city council allocating £16.8 million for the revitalisation.
Nonetheless, the future of the old police headquarters is under doubt since no developer has shown interest in acquiring the property. Rather, the empty structure might be entirely torn down before any work starts on Queen Street.
Chief capital officer John Wilson said “there is little interest” in refurbishing the asbestos-filled building in its existing state.
In a report published to councillors, Mr Wilson continued: “Developers feedback to date has indicated a preference to demolish the current office building and prepare the site ready for future development.
“This is an expected position given potential holding costs, challenges of working around existing structures and potential concerns over future delivery.
“It is recognised a new build development is likely to have a higher future investment value/investor demand, than conversion of an older office building.
“Given that there are significant holding costs, together with the risk of a decaying building in a prominent city centre site, it would be considered prudent to demolish the current building and clear the site for future development whilst dialogue continues with potential development partners and potential endusers.”
It is hoped that the demolition of the former HQ could remain within the £16.8million budget.
The regeneration project was priced at £61million last September, but an estimated £43million is expected to be paid by the developer taking on the former police HQ.
Finance convener Alex McLellan said: “Queen Street was a key commitment during the election campaign and we are delivering on that promise.
“These plans will create a new space for people and families to enjoy in the city centre in years to come.
“The former police HQ site will remain an opportunity site for future development – and we would welcome any interest from the private sector.”
