Work has now started on site after Henry Boot Developments Limited rubber stamped its deal yesterday with Aberdeen City Council.

The scheme, which will be funded by the City Council, is located on the 130 acre former Rowett Research Institute site adjacent to Aberdeen International Airport.

It will include a 12,500 capacity performance venue, extensive covered exhibition halls, a four-star 200 bed hotel to be operated under the Hilton Hotels brand together with an energy centre and 2,500 parking spaces.

The initial phase of the scheme will provide more than 800,000 sq ft of space and includes a development agreement for another 150 bed hotel operated under the Aloft brand.

Robertson is expected to complete construction in the first half of 2019.

Henry Boot Developments Limited has also secured planning permission for a further 400,000 sq ft of business park space on land adjoining the exhibition and conference centre.

Jamie Boot, Chairman of Henry Boot said: “We are delighted to have been selected by the Aberdeen City Council to develop the city’s new exhibition and conference centre, four-star hotel and energy centre.

“This is a landmark agreement for Henry Boot Developments with development expected to be completed in 2019.

“It is very pleasing to see the larger commercial development schemes we have been preparing for some time now finally on site. 

“We remain mindful of the challenges facing our industry after the result of the EU Referendum, taking into consideration this current market backdrop, we maintain a cautious outlook and as such the Board’s expectations remain unchanged.”

Bill Robertson, executive chairman of Robertson Group added: “Robertson is delighted to have been selected as the main contractor on what will be an iconic venue for millions of visitors from all over the world.

“We have significant experience in delivering complex, high value, innovative, major projects across the country.

“Robertson has had a base in Aberdeen for over 25 years so we understand the local area. We will focus, where possible, on local employment, the local supply chain and working in partnership with the communities in the local area.”