Plans for future of 'deteriorating' Aberdeen city centre high rises move forward after consultation

A consultation on the future of eight Aberdeen city centre high rises has found the preferred option for the tower blocks to be 'do-minimum.'

Councillors from the Communities, Housing and Public Protection Committee noted that out of 477 of the residents who responded, 49% indicated they would prefer a ‘do minimum’ option for the blocks.

It comes after plans were revealed last year to either renovate or demolish the buildings, with some deteriorating and well past their life expectancy.

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The consultation, carried out in November 2023, explored views on the quality of existing accommodation for residents and owners in:

• Marischal Court

• Virigina Court

• Seamount Court

• Porthill Court

• Greig Court

• Hutcheon Court

• Thistle Court

• Gilcomstoun Land

Feedback from residents and owners showed that the 'do minimum' option was favoured to avoid intrusive works and concerns over potential costs.

Discussions were held with residents’ groups, as well as drop-in sessions where residents and owners had the chance to discuss the options with representatives from Aberdeen City Council and The Tenant Participation Advisory Service Scotland (TPAS).

The consultation was produced in conjunction with TPAS, Shelter Scotland and streets-UK.

Councillors had previously heard that the blocks have deteriorated in line with their age and how some of the flats no longer meeting energy performance requirements.

Estimates showed it could cost £480,000 to bring each flat up to modern standards over the next 30 years, compared with up to £450,000 for demolition or replacement per flat.

The Communities, Housing and Public Protection Committee agreed in May 2023 the consultation should be carried out to ensure that the views of residents and owners in these multi-storeys on the economic, social, and environmental impact of the blocks be considered.

The next steps for the multi-storeys will be included in a report back to the Communities, Housing and Public Protection Committee in Spring 2025.

Aberdeen City Council Communities Housing and Public Protection Committee convener Councillor Miranda Radley said: "We welcome the feedback given by tenants and residents and thank them all for providing their views.

"The results of this consultation will enable us to shape the future of Aberdeen’s housing stock and improve this for years to come."

Vice convener Councillor Dell Henrickson said: "It is important that we listen to the feedback provided by those currently living in the eight multi-storeys so that we can continue to provide quality homes to individuals and families."