Robert Gordon University (RGU) will hold a public exhibition from 12 to 16 December at its Student Association building at 60 Schoolhill to seek public opinion on the development options for its portfolio of buildings in Aberdeen city centre.

The university is currently in the middle of a 34,000m2 new build development which once complete will see all of the university's activities moved to its Garthdee campus. Phase 1 of this development is progressing well and due for completion in spring 2013.

Phase 2 is dependent on the university raising funds from the sale of its city centre buildings including St Andrews Street, the Clarke and Administration buildings at Schoolhill, and the Student Association building. The Technical building at Schoolhill has already been sold to Robert Gordon's College.

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Pat Briggs, Vice-Principal at RGU said: "In addition to enabling the phase 2 move to Garthdee, the sale of these buildings will significantly improve the university's sustainability as our older building stock is approximately 20% less energy efficient than our new buildings. However, we wouldn't rule out a continued presence in the city centre if suitable opportunities presented themselves in discussion with developers."

As part of the planning process the university will hold a public exhibition to seek the views of the Aberdeen community on the different development opportunities for these buildings which include hotel accommodation, commercial office space and residential use.

Members of the public can visit the exhibition at any time during this week. For those wishing a more detailed explanation representatives of DTZ, who are advising the university, will be on hand to explain the various scenarios which are currently envisaged for these buildings on 14 December.

(GK)