Veteran Aberdeen retailer Norman Esslemont has smashed through the £50,000 mark in his crowdfunder to challenge Aberdeen City Council’s controversial bus gates scheme in court.
The prominent campaigner launched a fresh fundraising appeal just last week – and says the rapid response from the public proves the depth of anger over the city centre traffic restrictions.
Backed by leading advocate Alasdair Sutherland of Burness Paull, Mr Esslemont has secured a procedural hearing in June, with a full appeal expected to follow in the autumn.
He claims the council’s decision to make the bus priority measures permanent was “legally flawed on multiple grounds”.
Aberdeen City Council takes a different view and will defend the case.
Mr Esselmont said: “These bus gates have choked off trade, driven footfall to record lows, and punished motorists for simply trying to access their city.
“This isn’t just about roads – it’s about accountability, transparency, and the future of Aberdeen’s heart.”
The campaign – which previously raised £35,000 – is required to hit the £69,000 to take the case to court, and Mr Esslemont has urged urged the public to support the legal challenge via its Crowdjustice page before the final appeal is lodged.
“This city has heart. It has soul. It deserves better than this,” he added.
“Together, we can rebuild a city centre that’s fairer, busier, and open to all.”
You can view the crowdfunding page here.