The large complex is being built near the station

An investment of �20m by Hammerson in the Union Square development next to Aberdeen Railway Station means the �190m project can progress.

Aberdeen City Council said there had been several false starts with the scheme in the past but now the plans finally looked set for success.

It will have retail, leisure, catering, cinema and parking facilities.

'Buoyant economy'

Council leader Kate Dean said of the nine-hectare site plans: "These are exciting times, Aberdeen is set to be one of the best shopping destinations in Scotland.

"Although Aberdeen is already the number one shopping area for the north east it has faced the threat from other shopping destinations such as Dundee and Inverness.

"Working with our partners the city council will ensure we remain in that top spot."

John Richards, chief executive of Hammerson, said: "Hammerson is very pleased to take total control of this exciting development opportunity.

"Aberdeen's economy is buoyant and this development will bring well-configured retail space to boost the city's growth."