Aberdeen’s Northern Hotel to Become Student Accommodation

The historic Northern Hotel in Aberdeen may soon see a revival as student accommodation, according to plans recently submitted to the local authority. The Art Deco landmark, situated at the intersection of Great Northern Road and Clifton Road, closed its doors in 2022 due to soaring energy costs.

Developers Inspired Living LLP are proposing to transform the A-listed building into 47 student flats. Originally purchased by Aberdeen University in 1990 and converted into a student residence, the building obtained Category A status before transitioning back to private ownership in 1993.

The proposed renovations include internal alterations to the ground floor to accommodate 11 student apartments, a reception area, a cinema, study space, a gym, laundry facilities, and secure cycle and bin storage. The first floor will feature nine apartments, a social/library space (formerly the ballroom), and a private dining room. On the second floor, 14 apartments will be housed, with an additional 14 apartments and storage space on the third floor.

Each flat will boast its own compact kitchen and shower space. The public bar facing Clifton Road, alongside other bar and dining areas, will be repurposed into residential units. Developers have highlighted the continued demand for student accommodation in Aberdeen, with commercial property agents confirming the necessity for additional housing options.

In a statement to the council, the developers expressed their confidence in the market demand for student living spaces: “It is evident that Inspired Living LLP would not be pursuing these plans if there was not a genuine need for such accommodation in the city.”