Aberdeen’s revamped market will have a choice of 10 food vendors and a bar run by local brewer Fierce, papers have revealed.
McGinty's Group - which has been chosen as operator for a new market being constructed on a site previously occupied by a BHS store on Union Street and the old market on The Green and Market Street - has outlined its vision for the project.
The hospitality group presented councillors with the papers on Monday.
As part of McGinty’s proposal, the upper level of the former BHS store will be turned into an indoor market for independent traders.
This space will be designed to accommodate small retailers offering a wide range of goods such as artworks, jewellery, bakes, artisan food and more.
Meanwhile, visitors will be able to get cold and hot refreshments from a new coffee shop, which will come with outdoors seating in a balcony overlooking The Green.
There will also be opportunities for local charities and community organisations to take up space there.
This floor will operate all year round, with entrances from Union Street and Market Street, according to the Press & Journal.
The ground floor will be converted into a haven for all foodies, with 10 vendors providing a diverse menu for all tastes.
A feature bar, run in collaboration with local brewery Fierce Beer, will also offer a range of local craft beer, wines and spirits.
More open space
Yesterday it was confirmed that an open space will form part of the much anticipated new market.
Councillors have agreed to bring forward a revised planning application which will allow for more open space on The Green and more feature landscaping and lighting.
It is also anticipated that permanent hoarding around the site will be in place over the coming weeks once some snagging works are completed by the demolition contractor allowing for enabling works such as the demolition of the BHS store concrete façade.
Work is also ongoing to that the design is now progressed to meet the agreed dates for work packages and tender inquiries with the aim of having a site construction start in place by early 2024.
Heart of Aberdeen
Council Co-leader Councillor Christian Allard, said: “Today’s report, on the back of the naming of a local operator, marks another milestone for the creation of the city’s new market and the reinvigoration of the city centre as we seek to attract more people into the traditional heart of Aberdeen.
“We are looking to progress the project as soon as possible. It will create not only an indoor food market but also an inviting and spacious outdoor area which can host events and draw more visitors to the historic Green.”
Co-leader, Councillor Ian Yuill, said: “The development of the new market will make a real difference in transforming Aberdeen’s city centre. It will also provide both a unique shopping destination and a social hub that will play a key part in restoring Union Street as the heart of Aberdeen.”