Building Design Partnership (BDP) has been chosen to develop design proposals for Aberdeen's Music Hall.

BDP was one of five architectural practices shortlisted by Aberdeen Performing Arts (APA) for the project. APA operates the venue in the city.

The Music Hall is a landmark for Aberdeen and is a much-used A-listed building, but after 154 years of assemblies, concerts, rallies and shows, the building is in need of refurbishment.

APA Board Chairman Graeme Roberts said: "A revitalised Music Hall has an important role to play in Aberdeen's vision to be a vibrant, creative and ambitious city with a strong cultural identity, a centre of artistic excellence and a cultural tourism destination.


"With the support of Aberdeen City Council, we felt that an architectural design competition would attract some innovative and original ideas for making the most of this iconic Aberdeen landmark."

BDP was one of more than 20 firms to take part in an architectural design competition, commissioned by Aberdeen Performing Arts.

Work will begin immediately to develop designs for the Music Hall with a view to launch a fundraising campaign later this year as well as submitting an application to Creative Scotland's capital investment programme.

BDP architect director Bruce Kennedy said: "The transformation of this wonderful 'sleeping beauty' of a building, into a truly great and popular cultural, civic and community asset, must be a key element in supporting city centre regeneration and APA's vision for the future."

(JP/CD)