Morrison Construction has been appointed as the main contractor for the £40m redevelopment of Aberdeen Market.
Aberdeen City Council intends for the site, part of city center regeneration plans, to become a “destination venue with international style food, drink and retail market”.
December 2022 Council Documents The market project cost £40 million, with a related streetscape project valued at £5.1 million and the improvement works on Union Street close to £20 million.
In August, a report to the council said the market project “remains within the capital expenditure parameters identified in the business case for the site”.
Demolition work on the market site is complete. Work will begin early next year and be completed by early 2026.
The council said Morrison, which was bought by Galliford Try in 2006, intends to work with local businesses as subcontractors to deliver a “world-class attraction”.
The council said the site will include a market “promoting local products and produce alongside delicatessens, cafes and continental-style food establishments”.
The site will include small retail units alongside space for temporary and pop-up installations as well as flexible use outdoor spaces. The council’s wider development plans also include improvements and improved pedestrian access to the streets near the market.
Aberdeen council co-leader Ian Yuill said: “The market development will create a vibrant and exciting new destination for people to visit in the city centre, as well as creating an improved connection between Union Street, The Green and bus and train stations.
“Is good [that] a Scottish company will be the main contractor for the new market, which will provide a variety of food and drink outlets, boosting the local economy, as well as helping Union Street and the city center to continue to thrive.”
Planning consent for the market plans was originally granted in 2021. A revised planning application was made in June following discussions with the preferred operator, McGinty’s.
The market development and related street projects are being part-funded by £20 million from the UK Government’s Leveling Up Fund. The council said the funding would contribute to “the new market building and nearby town planning”.
