Houses and commercial developments to shape future of Aberdeen communities
Developers have lodged bids with the local authority to build more than 32,000 homes and several major commercial developments on key sites across Aberdeen, it can be revealed.
An extensive list of proposals from leading developers which will affect communities throughout Aberdeen and shape the future growth of the city was published yesterday by the local authority.
Hundreds of millions of pounds of potential investment is outlined in Aberdeen City Council’s development plan options document, published as part of reforms of the planning system, as developers reveal their plans for when the global recession subsides.
Three retail or business parks are proposed for Tyrebagger Quarry, Kingswells and Middlefield in the proposals, as well as possible supermarkets at Denmore Road and Souterhead Road. Up to 7,000 homes could be built at Grandhome and Whitestripes, as well as potentially 2,000 houses and a school at Loirston Loch, where Aberdeen Football Club hopes to build its £38million new community stadium, as well as plans already announced for 3,000 homes at Banchory and in Lower Deeside.
Consultation will now be held on the bids before they are considered for inclusion in the city’s next local development plan.
The proposals would help the city council meet ambitious plans to build 36,000 homes in the city by 2030, outlined in the region’s recently approved structure plan.
John Curran, partner at UK house building firm McGrigors, said: “The money is huge, but the irony is we are talking huge money at a time when there is no money available in terms of the development market. In my opinion if you take the current liquidity crisis, it could be phased over 20 years.”
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “Planning authorities are being urged to engage with all groups at the earliest opportunity in the preparation of the development plans.
“In response to this, Aberdeen City Council has initiated a process for gathering information about development options in the city.
“Decisions on which sites should be taken forward in the next plan will be made following consultation.”
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By Calum Ross and Ross Davidson
Published: 06/05/2009