The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland (AHSS) has written to the Chief Executive of Aberdeen City Council to raise serious concerns about the deteriorating condition of the B-listed property at 28–32 Marischal Street.

The Society highlights that part of the roof above the stairwell has collapsed, leaving the building exposed to water ingress and bird access. This is already causing further damage and risks accelerating the decline of the historic structure if not addressed quickly.

Despite the issue having been known for some time, it remains unclear what action has been taken. AHSS notes that a planning enforcement officer met with the owner in 2021, but no outcome has been communicated. Attempts to contact the owner directly have also gone unanswered, and there appears to be ongoing uncertainty around ownership.

Under existing legislation, local authorities have powers to intervene where listed buildings are allowed to fall into disrepair. AHSS is therefore calling on Aberdeen City Council to clarify whether formal notice has been served on the owner and to take action to ensure the building is made wind and watertight as a matter of urgency.

The letter also draws attention to the building’s architectural and historic significance. The property forms part of Provost Young’s House, which was carefully restored in the 1980s through a project led by conservation practitioners including members of AHSS. That work transformed a derelict structure into homes and commercial spaces, retaining key historic features and contributing positively to the surrounding area.

Now, several decades on, the building is once again at risk. Earlier fire damage to part of the roof was never fully repaired, and subsequent defects have left the structure increasingly vulnerable. AHSS points out that original drawings for the building survive within the archives of Historic Environment Scotland, offering a valuable resource to support repair and reinstatement.

AHSS is urging the Council to take immediate steps to secure the building, carry out essential emergency works, and prevent further deterioration. Once stabilised, a programme of drying out and repair could enable the property to be brought back into use.

At a time when the retention and reuse of historic buildings is central to both heritage protection and climate objectives, the Society stresses that avoidable loss through neglect must not be allowed to continue.