Aberdeen City Council today agreed to enter into dialogue with Bon Accord Heritage over the future of the former Bon Accord Baths.
The Property Sub Committee unanimously agreed the recommendations of a report which included to instruct the head of land and property assets to start discussions with the group, and then report back to the committee by 24 May, 2016.
The committee also noted the number of offers received which was seven in total, the price of the offers, their conditions, and the level of supporting information.
Property Sub Committee convener Councillor Ross Thomson said: “The City Council recognises that the community can play a huge role in shaping their local area and it is great to see so many volunteers taking an active interest in the future of the Bon Accord Baths site, which otherwise could have been lost to the city.
“These proposals could help breathe life back into a facility that was close to the hearts of many Aberdonians. We look forward to hearing how the plans will develop following detailed discussions with our officers.”
The bidders were asked to supply the following information along with their bid: proposed purchase price (exclusive of VAT), proof of funding, identity of proposed purchaser, track record/experience, details of any conditions, detailed plans or evidence of discussions with Aberdeen City Planning Authority should a change of use be required, and timescales for conditions and proposed completion date.
The report highlighted all the offers will have an impact on council revenue budgets and the holding costs of the property needs to be carefully considered. It said due to the price, scale, and vulnerability of the property as a target for vandalism and theft, the cost of keeping the building safe, secure and wind-and-watertight, are likely to be significant.
The report also said a timescale for the proposal being brought forward was unclear and a programme will be presented to a future meeting of the committee.