Removal of majority of Spaces for People interventions on Union Street starts today

17 November 2021

The work to remove the majority of the Spaces for people interventions in the city centre which were introduced to increase space for pedestrians due to coronavirus 2m physical distancing is starting today.

Aberdeen City Council’s city growth and resources committee agreed at a meeting on Friday they should be removed with the exception of Union Street central, the Belmont Street/Back Wynd area, and Schoolhill/Upperkirkgate, by the end of this month.

Removal of the temporary traffic lights and the wooden pavement extensions are to start tonight, followed by removal of the traffic bollards and road lining work. The wooden pavement extensions are to be distributed to community groups at a later date.

Bus stops, except for Union Street Central, Market Street, and Bridge Street, will return to their original positions. The temporary bus stops on Market Street will remain along with the bus gate on Union Street going into Market Street which is supporting public transport. The temporary taxi ranks will also remain.

CG&R committee had previously agreed that temporary external structures used by restaurants and bars had to be removed by 11.59pm on 24 January 2022.

Officers will continue to work with the bus companies, local businesses, and partners throughout these changes with most of the works taking place either early morning or in the evening. Motorists should be aware there is likely to be disruption to traffic in the area while the phased removal works take place. It is expected the phased works will be completed by Monday, weather depending.

The current measures on the Boulevard and Esplanade will remain meantime and will form part of the Beach Masterplan.