A new hotel and retail development proposal by C&L Properties on the former site of Esslemont and Macintosh department store in Aberdeen's Union Street has been granted planning permission from Aberdeen City Council.

The redevelopment designed by architect Holmes Partnership will transform the six-story building into a 100-bed hotel with retail facilities.

A new glazed link will connect the existing two listed buildings, forming a complex with a traditional façade and a contemporary façade facing Union Street and Broad Street respectively.

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The Broad Street elevation will consist of a part layered, multi-dimensional glass rooftop extension - part traditional stone façade - part street-level transparent two-storey entrance to the hotel and shops.

Charlie Ferrari, of the C&L Group said: "Given Aberdeen's importance as the oil capital of Europe, we feel this development will help stimulate the central zone of the city, particularly at the east end of Union Street. We have been encouraged that, despite the current economic climate, there is clear support for our proposals."

Sandy McMillan of Holmes, said: "This is a tremendously exciting project to be part of. The new development will breathe life back into this landmark corner location of Aberdeen, using a blend of exciting contemporary design with sensitively retained and restored elements of the existing historic buildings."

(GK/JM)