Discount retailer Lidl has made an offer to buy the site that previously housed the Aberdeen Journals HQ on Aberdeen’s Lang Stracht, in a final effort to remain in the vicinity.
Supermarket chiefs put in a bid earlier this month but negotiations about plans for the demolished site have been ongoing since the former offices were flattened six years ago.
The Lang Stracht Lidl is the oldest branch in Aberdeen and has already reached out to the community expressing its wish to continue operating in the area since the company was “unable” to renew the lease.
A Lidl spokesperson had confirmed their commitment to securing the site, stating: “We are fully committed to delivering a new store for households in Mastrick and securing the Lang Stracht site. Our dedicated property team are keen to continue their engagement with the council to conclude negotiations.”
Lidl’s journey to acquire the land has been fraught with complications. Talks with Aberdeen City Council began in 2019, but progress stalled due to concerns over risks associated with a nearby sensitive data centre. While the council agreed in 2020 to demolish existing structures, Lidl’s revised offer for the land was rejected, with officials insisting on marketing it through an open process.
Last December, Lidl renewed negotiations but faced further setbacks as council members expressed concerns about selling the land during a period of low market value.
Aberdeen City Council acknowledged ongoing discussions with Lidl but stated that any proposals would need approval from its finance committee. A council representative remarked: “We understand the importance of accessible retail options for our residents. We are in discussions with Lidl to explore potential new sites within the city that could accommodate their needs and continue to serve our community”.
The current Lidl store on Lang Stracht in Aberdeen is set to close in July 2025.
