Esslemont and Macintosh could become flats – after 20 years lying empty
The famous department store closed in 2007, with the upper floors sitting vacant ever since.
Aberdeen’s Esslemont and MacIntosh building could finally be brought back to life – as developers reveal plans to turn the upper levels into dozens of flats.
The famed department store closed in May 2007, after 134 years in the city centre.
In the following years, plans to turn the building into a hotel emerged – but never made it off the drawing board.
Now, with the upper levels having been left vacant for almost two decades, fresh plans have been unveiled for the fondly remembered landmark.
Who is behind the new Esslemont and Macintosh flats plan?
The plans have been lodged by English developers.
Real estate firm Crestline Assets, led by Henry Festus Evwerhamre, have submitted documents to Aberdeen City Council outlining the scheme.
It comes after the Granite Mile landmark went under the hammer a few years ago.
What are the proposals?
In total, 24 flats would be formed at the 32-28 Union Street property.
There would be a mix of studio apartments along with one and two-bedroom flats.
The ground floor spaces would be reserved for commercial use, with Miller and Carter occupying one unit while the other sits empty following the closure of The Esslemont restaurant.
Developers say their vision will help to breathe new life into the area.
Paperwork states: “The proposal forms part of Aberdeen City Council’s wider ambition to reintroduce sustainable residential use into the city centre, helping to revitalise Union Street.
“The scheme responds directly to the long-term vacancy of the upper floors,
bringing them back into active use while retaining the established commercial presence at ground-floor level.”
‘Our flats plan will preserve Esslemont and Macintosh character’
They add that this project would require “comprehensive internal alterations and refurbishment works”.
Lifts would need to be reinstated and upgraded, while bicycles could be stored in the basement.
The papers add: “The principal Union Street frontage will remain completely unchanged, preserving the building’s civic character and contribution to the wider streetscape.”
You can see the plans for yourself here.
[Source: Press and Journal]
