A £110,000 refurbishment aims to restore the historic charm of Union Street.
Topics covered
Historic transformation of a vacant shopfront
In a significant move to restore the historic character of Union Street in Aberdeen, a long-vacant shop has undergone a remarkable refurbishment. The former Hydro Electric shop, located at number 156, has been empty since 2016, following a nationwide decline in white goods stores.
The owners, Challenge Fishing Company, have invested £110,000 in revitalizing the shopfront, aiming to rectify alterations made over 40 years ago that detracted from the building’s original charm.
Restoring the original facade
The C-listed building, which dates back approximately 200 years, has seen its facade heavily modified during the tenure of Scottish Hydro Electric.
Architect Graham Mitchell highlighted that the previous alterations, characterized by an excessive use of plate glass, obliterated what was likely an attractive and simple shopfront. The recent refurbishment has been designed to create a more inviting and comfortable appearance, enhancing both the property and the overall streetscape of Union Street.
Future prospects for Union Street
This renovation comes at a time when there are renewed efforts to breathe life into the Granite Mile, a once-thriving retail area that has faced challenges in recent years. The Our Union Street taskforce is actively seeking new tenants for the 2,788 square foot space, offering a suite of incentives, including potential grant funding and rates relief. With the revitalization of this shopfront, there is hope that it will attract a variety of retail uses, contributing to the overall regeneration of the area.
Community impact and ongoing developments
The transformation of the Hydro Electric shop is part of a broader initiative to rejuvenate Union Street, which has seen a number of empty shops in recent years. As the local community looks forward to the potential influx of new businesses, the recent changes are seen as a positive step towards restoring the vibrancy of this historic street. The plans for the upper floors of the building, which were approved in 2020 to convert into seven flats, further indicate a commitment to revitalizing the area.
Conclusion
The refurbishment of the shopfront at 156 Union Street is a testament to the importance of preserving historical architecture while adapting to modern retail needs. As the community rallies around these changes, the hope is that Union Street will once again become a bustling hub of activity, drawing both locals and visitors alike.
