E&M to get glazed extension makeover

An iconic building in Aberdeen is set for a makeover that could elevate its landmark status in the city even further.

The former Esslemont and Macintosh (E&Ms) department store building is to be transformed into a plush new hotel, according to the Evening Express.

Featuring 97 rooms and 50 new parking spaces, the hotel will keep the classic facade of the E&Ms building and augment it with a double height wraparound glass frontage which will cover the Union Street and Broad Street entrances.

It will also feature glass balconies, allowing guests to enjoy the combination of classic and contemporary architecture.

Aberdeen city council planning convener Scott Cassie, told the newspaper that the committee backed the plans.

"I am absolutely excited by this proposal," he said.

"It is an iconic building. I can remember going there for school blazers when I was a young loon."

A loon is Doric (Aberdeenshire dialect) for lad or guy.