The closure of The Esslemont highlights the ongoing struggles of local businesses in Aberdeen.

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The recent announcement of the closure of The Esslemont, a restaurant located in the heart of Union Street, has sparked significant concern among local business owners and residents in Aberdeen. Opened in 2019, The Esslemont was a part of the historic department store that had been a staple in the community for decades.
However, the owners, McGinty’s Group, cited a dramatic decline in foot traffic as the primary reason for its impending closure, a situation they believe is exacerbated by the controversial bus gates implemented by the Aberdeen City Council.
Declining footfall and its consequences
Norman Esslemont, the former head of the Esslemont and MacIntosh department store, has publicly criticized the bus gates, labeling them as “infamous” and attributing the decline in foot traffic to their presence. The bus gates, designed to improve traffic flow and safety, have instead been perceived by many as detrimental to local businesses. The Esslemont’s closure follows closely on the heels of Mac’s Pizzeria, which also shut its doors just five months prior, raising alarms about the viability of businesses in this prime location.
Community response and legal action
In response to the closures, Esslemont has initiated a crowdfunding campaign aimed at funding a legal challenge against the city council’s decision to make the bus gates permanent. This initiative has garnered support from numerous local traders and frustrated residents, who have collectively raised over £11,400. The community’s backing underscores the growing frustration with the council’s traffic management strategies and their perceived negative impact on the local economy.
Political reactions and future implications
Local politicians have also weighed in on the situation. Conservative MSP Liam Kerr described the closure of The Esslemont as “another hammer blow” to Union Street, emphasizing the need for the council to reconsider its approach to traffic management. He pointed out that the loss of such a historic building not only affects the local economy but also diminishes the city’s prestige and self-belief. Meanwhile, SNP council group leader Christian Allard defended the bus gates, arguing that they are essential for ongoing improvement projects in the city center.
The situation in Aberdeen serves as a cautionary tale for other cities grappling with similar urban planning challenges. As local businesses continue to struggle, it raises important questions about the balance between traffic management and economic vitality. The fate of The Esslemont and other businesses in Union Street may ultimately hinge on the council’s willingness to adapt its strategies in response to community feedback.