The joint application to renovate the derelict part of the hospital into homes and apartments was made by NHS Grampian, Stewart Milne Homes and Barratt Scotland.

Aberdeen City Council’s planning development management committee expressed a willingness to approve the scheme, subject to conditions, back in 2015.

The approval was dependent on the conclusion of a legal agreement to secure a 25% affordable housing provision, of which 15% will be on site – and developer contributions linked to primary education, and community, library, and sports and recreation facilities.

When plans were first launched concerns were raised that the granite from the hospital would be lost but the developers later confirmed they would incorporate the material.

Construction began later that year and the lower hospital, which was originally the Royal Lunatic Asylum, has been knocked down and the buildings which made up part of the upper hospital have been converted into 323 homes.

The properties will be part of Barratt Homes’ recently launched Westburn Gardens development.

Mike Cowie, sales and marketing director, said: “The green spaces and convenient pathways for residents give it a real sense of community at the heart of the city.”

Councillor Bill Cormie, who represents the Midstocket and Rosemount ward, also welcomed the news.

He said: “I’m delighted to see the development is almost complete.

“I was a supporter of it when it came to the council.

“They’ve kept so much of the granite and it’s a beautiful development.

“It will provide much needed homes for the community and the city.”