Both development companies, HFD Group and Ediston Properties were unsuccessful bidders for the prime redevelopment of Aberdeen city council headquarters, St Nicholas House and are both now ready to challenge Aberdeen’s city council’s process on selecting development companies to partner with on this project. Both sets of lawyers representing HDF Group and Ediston Properties have now written to the council to advise that a judicial review is being considered and have requested a response is received by this Friday in regards to re-running the selection process of who they appoint. A spokesperson for the council stated that the council will respond directly to the solicitors and added that they are confident in their “very robust processes” in appointing a development company. 

The winning company, Muse Developments who were chosen by the council as the preferred option will work to develop the 2.14 acre site that was vacated by Aberdeen council back in 2011. Muse, funded by Aviva have submitted plans labelled as Marischal Square that will provide the city with a new mixed-use quarter. At the moment Muse’s proposals are only indicative and subject to a public consultations which is currently running until the end of July, prior to the planning application being formally submitted. Muse’s plans suggest the scheme is to provide linked buildings, of which the tallest building will be 10 storeys. Muse proposals have indicated that the site is to contain a 250-bedroom boutique hotel, as well as cafes, restaurants, and retail and office space.  

The council will maintain a long-term interest in their former headquarters. They will do this by leasing out part of the development so that they can receive a proportion of the rental profits from tenants for the next 35 years. 

Morgan Pryce is a specialist tenant acquisition agent with offices in Oxford Circus and the City. Morgan Pryce specialises in search, negotiation and project management and works exclusively for tenants.