17th Century tower hopes to raise 'community pride'

A 400-year-old tower in Aberdeen which is set to open after standing derelict for the last 27 years will help "provide an opportunity for pride in the community", according to campaigners.

The Wallace Tower was originally erected in the 1600s in the city centre but was rebuilt brick by brick in Seaton Park in the 1960s to make way for a Marks & Spencer store at Netherkirkgate.

In its long history the category B-listed tower has been used for many things including as a shop, a pub and for housing.

Its ground floor has been transformed into a community cafe after a long campaign by the Tillydrone Community Development Trust.

Colin McFadyen, the chair of the trust told BBC Scotland News the tower had spent the last 27 years casting a "derelict shadow".

He said the community-led project was set to revitalise the historic building and the work had taken inspiration from the original 17th Century tower.

"It will provide an opportunity for pride in the community again," he added.

"When it was in its location in the city centre it has been many things throughout its life.

"We are taking inspiration from that and trying to make a multipurpose facility here."

The chair of the trust expressed hope that the renovated historic landmark would significantly benefit the community, becoming the second café in the Tillydrone area and providing cultural and skills development options.

The organisers hope the project will help to "reclaim the name of Tillydrone".

Everyone involved is a resident and they aim to "demonstrate that there are good things in all areas of Aberdeen".

The Wallace Tower is a three-storey building with the ground floor set to open as a cafe this month.

The Liberty Kitchen's owner Nikki Leys has moved her café from Banchory to Aberdeen.

She said the project was "going to give an opportunity to create some incredible community events".

"We're hoping to be able to provide a range of products and hopefully bring the community together in a space that's on their doorstep," she said.

Further down the line the plans are to open the upper floors.

The first floor is intended to be an exhibition space and the second floor will be refurbished into a co-working space .

It is hoped the redevelopment can revitalise the Tillydrone area and the park itself.

Colin's wife, Heather, said she had been passing the tower for years while walking her dogs.

She said: "A lot of work and time has been put into this and we are looking forward to the opening soon.

"I think they are going to create something really new and special with it."