Work is continuing to upgrade Union Street in Aberdeen.

The first phase of Operation Union Street Rejuvenation was launched in September as part of regeneration work under the City Centre Masterplan. Features included the upgrading of street furniture and the creation of a dedicated team to keep the thoroughfare in top condition.

The next phase will include repairing and preserving key buildings on Union Street as part of a Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme. Funding has been secured with a £1.2 million award from Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which will be matched by the local authority.


Overall, the 'masterplan' vision involves bringing back into use more vacant and underused historic buildings on Union Street, with improved public realm and pedestrian priority between Bridge Street and the Castlegate in the longer term.

Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, the operator of the Business Improvement District, said: "Operation Union Street Rejuvenation is essential to revitalise the thoroughfare.

"The deep cleans of Union Street are making a tremendous difference and shows what can be achieved. This is a good start but we all understand it is crucial we deliver on the many other strategic aspects of the City Centre Masterplan.

"There is a real sense of optimism growing around the city centre and Aberdeen Inspired is committed to continue working with others to foster this further.

"We want to drive forward enhancements to Union Street, and the city centre, and it is great to see this becoming a reality through our partnership with Aberdeen City Council and many others."

(LM)