Marischal Square development in Aberdeen gets almost £2m of rates relief

Aberdeen City Council has been given nearly £2m of relief on business rates for the Marischal Square development by the Scottish government.

The exemption comes from a system designed to allow time for property developments to find new tenants.

Douglas Lumsden, the authority's co-leader, said work was continuing to get tenants into the building.

In December, ice cream firm Mackie's became the first shop to open in the Marischal Square development.

Stephen Flynn, the SNP group leader, said he had fears about the long-term costs falling to the council tax payer.