Plans for Broadford Works "urban village" backed by council officials

See the artists impression of what it could look like

Published 16th Sep 2016

It's hoped that Broadford Works will finally be transformed in the heart of Aberdeen.

Plans to create an urban village are being pushed through.

The factory was once a thriving business, but has been an eyesore for a while now and is prone to vandalism and fire-raising.

The owner's plans to develop the site have been on the drawing board for some time - and even won the backing of Prince Charles.

But no work has ever been done.

Now a new plan from Ferness Investment Holdings has been approved in principle by council officials to create hundreds of flats, as well as shops, offices, bars and restaurants at the site.

Aberdeen City Council's Planning Development Management Committee convener Councillor Ramsay Milne said: “Broadford Works is a site of great significance in Aberdeen and the decision represents the next stage in plans for its redevelopment.

“The scheme will create an entirely new and distinctive city centre neighbourhood all the while preserving the most important listed buildings on the site and retaining its industrial heritage and character for the residents of Aberdeen to enjoy.”

Aberdeen Central MSP welcomed the decision to press ahead with redevelopment, but urged councillors and developers to respect the heritage of the building.

He said: "It's extremely important that the right thing happens. I hope that Historic Environment Scotland will be paying close attention to what is planned for the site.

"Obviously we don't have all the detail, I think we need to study that detail very closely to make sure as much of Aberdeen's heritage is protected as possible."