Developer Ittan Rose previously admitted he was “close to giving up” after Aberdeen City Council planning officers rejected the application. But councillors have now overturned that decision, approving the conversion of the disused Altens office blocks into bariatric flats.

The proposal had faced objections over the site’s location, surrounded by industrial premises and adjacent to a dual carriageway. However, planning officials accepted that preserving existing buildings and tackling the city’s shortage of suitable housing outweighed these concerns.

Loirston House’s owners, CTL Estates, had initially intended to demolish the property, which was costing them more than £100,000 a year to keep vacant. In March, however, they revised their plans to explore converting part of the site into specialist accommodation for people living with obesity-related health issues.

Bariatric housing supports individuals with complex needs – whether linked to genetic conditions, physical limitations, or mental health challenges – and is in short supply across the north-east. The new plans outline 24 flats in total, with nine designed specifically for bariatric residents.

While planning officers argued that placing housing in such a heavily industrialised area contradicted policy, CTL Estates appealed, stressing Aberdeen’s urgent demand for this type of accommodation. Developers also suggested the scheme could help ease pressure on waiting times at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.

Not all councillors were convinced. Neil Copeland described the building as “unsuitable” and criticised the flat sizes. Nevertheless, the committee ultimately voted in favour of the project.

Architect Bradley Craig welcomed the decision, saying the development would “add great value to the lives of its residents, as well as the broader community.” He also highlighted the wider benefits of reusing brownfield land, noting the scheme’s role in local regeneration.

The approval comes with conditions, including the requirement to install a signalised pedestrian crossing on both Hareness Road and Wellington Road.