The historic former Bank of Scotland on Union Street in Aberdeen will be transformed into a kebab restaurant

Plans to transform the historic former Bank of Scotland branch on Union Street in Aberdeen into a kebab restaurant have been given the green light.

Sanaland Ltd lodged plans to convert the late 19th century B-listed building into a new restaurant in August.

The historic bank closed its doors to customers for the last time in September 2022 and the building has remained empty ever since.

Before the arrival of the Bank of Scotland, the site was used by the North of Scotland Canadian Mortgage Company, also called Canada House.

Although the name and operator of the restaurant have not yet been announced, planning documents hinted at what could be on the menu.

Floor plans revealed the kitchen would include a charcoal griddle, skewers, double fryers and a pizza oven.

A salad bar and drinks bar are also included.

It is believed the new venue will have enough seating for 44 guests.

The kitchen and dining room would be located at Union Street level, with a bar, fridge and freezer, and food preparation space on the lower level.

An extraction duct will be added to ensure that any cooking odors can be properly dealt with.

The developers also plan to install an acoustic ceiling between the restaurant and the residential apartments above to avoid any noise pollution.

However, the proposal has attracted some opposition from residents, with seven objections sent to Aberdeen City Council.

Karen Scaife thought the city center needed more independent shops, not hot food restaurants.

While Ross Baird claimed plans for the “extremely beautiful” building would bring “unwanted” smells and noise to those living above the empty unit.

He said: “This building is a special case of a property which has been improved to achieve a high standard of living and is therefore a desirable place to live.

“It would be a travesty if this type of business had an impact on the families who live on the upper floors. »

The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland also expressed its disapproval, contesting the proposed chimney flue “disgorging fumes, smoke and odors” next to Justice Mill Lane.

But local authority planners backed the plans as they believed they would support the “vibrancy and vitality” of Union Street and contribute to the town center masterplan.

They also welcomed the revival of vacant housing.

The proposal was recently submitted to Aberdeen City Council’s planning committee.

Councilor Marie Boulton admitted the request made her “nervous” as she didn’t think there was enough clarity on what would actually be served here.

And she was concerned that the restaurant might eventually allow deliveries in the future.

“It concerns me that yes, we will return the building to service, but not necessarily in the way we would like.”

Referring to the recent debate around Granma’s Kitchen, the member for Lower Deeside asked whether measures would be in place to address the concerns.

She explained: “I’m a little nervous about the venue and what it might look like because we have enough problems with other people. »

But despite this uncertainty, the application was unanimously approved.