Robertson Group has been appointed main contractor on a new multi-million pound development in Aberdeen.

The appointment was made by UK property developer and Aberdeen City Council's joint venture partner, Henry Boot Developments.

The contract, to develop Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre, will entail site preparation works, including ground and infrastructure works, as well as building the new arena and conference centre and one of the three on-site hotels.

The new Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre will provide four times the exhibition space available at the current AECC, and increase the maximum capacity to 12,500 in the arena. The new facility is a key element of Aberdeen City Council's Strategic Infrastructure Plan to grow the city's economy.  

Robertson was appointed further to a competitive tendering process and will work with Henry Boot and the Council to create the new world-class facility for Aberdeen and the North East.

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600 new jobs are to be created during the construction period, which is expected to be completed in 2019.

Commenting on the appointment,
Nick Harris of Henry Boot Developments said: "Following the sod cutting last month, I am very pleased that we are now in a position to appoint Robertson Group as the contractor to deliver this vital project and I am looking forward to working with them over the next three years. We understand how important the new world-class Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre is to the economy in Aberdeen and the North East and are pleased to be appointing Robertson Group which has close historical and current links to the area."

Aberdeen City Council Leader Councillor Jenny Laing also said: "Following on from the sod-cutting last month, it is great to see the new AECC progressing as it's a key part of the one of the biggest regenerations in the history of Aberdeen.

"Work on the site should really advance now that a contractor has been appointed and it will be exciting to see the development take shape over the coming months.

"The new AECC is a vital part of ensuring Aberdeen can compete on a global basis with other major cities and also for its future prosperity as it will attract bigger names in entertainment, as well as more international events and conferences."

And Bill Robertson, executive chairman of Robertson Group added: "Robertson is delighted to have been selected as the main contractor on what will be an iconic venue for millions of visitors from all over the world.

"We have significant experience in delivering complex, high value, innovative, major projects across the country.

"Robertson has had a base in Aberdeen for over 25 years so we understand the local area. We will focus, where possible, on local employment, the local supply chain and working in partnership with the communities in the local area."

(MH)