Developer Rockspring, which owns several linked properties on Union Street including the former BHS store and the attached indoor market, has submitted two new applications to re-configure buildings at 101-103 Union Street.

The plans will also include the change of use at the lower levels to create the new cafe space, accessed from The Green.

A spokeswoman for Rockspring said that the company’s vision for the site would assist with the Aberdeen City Council’s masterplan to revive the city centre.

She said: “Union Street has suffered in recent times due to structural changes in the retail environment.

“Our planning application seeks to plug the holes left by failing retailers and department stores, making the area more attractive and fit for purpose so that, together, we can bring more people to live and work in the city.

“We are working closely with Aberdeen City Council to put forward solutions that, not only enhance the buildings we own, but transform them into more relevant and attractive sites with street-level facades that will regenerate that part of Union Street.

“This scheme also adds much-needed living opportunities to a city centre which has been largely neglected by residential developers.”

A design statement, prepared by Montagu Evans on behalf of Rockspring Hanover Property Unit Trust, said shopfront alterations, reconfiguration of internal floorspace and a change of use of the upper floors to form residential space are among the proposals.

It added: “The refurbishment and alterations proposed are intended to refresh the premises and create a new opportunity and new future for the property.”

The unoccupied floor areas on levels four, in part, plus all of five and six, are proposed to be changed into residential use.

The proposals form part of wider plans previously lodged by Rockspring to redesign the disused department store and the adjoining market. A design statement with the plans said the redevelopment of the market would see an “under-utilised, unloved building” revitalised into a “vibrant retail space”.

The firm intends to add new shopfronts to The Green and to build a frameless glass wall around the old BHS site to showcase its interior and lure in more passers-by.

On Market Street, the indoor market would be set back from the street to remove its “oppressive, overhanging facade” and provide extra seating and public space outside.

Rockspring also plans a two-storey glass wall to sit underneath a large, “welcoming” curved corner which will help steer visitors along the side of the building.