Plans to transform the connection between Union Square and Aberdeen city centre have taken a major step forward after councillors backed a £100,000 contribution towards a new Trinity Centre escalator.
Aberdeen City Council voted by five to three to approve the funding, subject to the project meeting the necessary criteria, with Trinity Centre bosses matching contributions towards the overall cost.
The long-awaited project will install an escalator between Guild Street and the Trinity Centre, removing the steep steps which currently act as a barrier for people travelling between Union Square and Union Street.
The scheme - which would use money raised through bus lane enforcement fines - is expected to significantly improve the connection between Union Street and the city's main rail and bus hubs at Union Square, potentially delivering a major boost to footfall as wider regeneration of the city centre gathers pace.
Councillor Miranda Radley said: “The installation of an escalator would remove a significant physical barrier, one that I face myself — the Trinity Centre steps. It would make this important city centre connection more accessible and welcoming for everyone. It’s the kind of practical investment that can make a real difference to how people experience our city centre."
The escalator will also complement major investment already under way around Union Street, the Castlegate and the new Aberdeen Market.
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