Building owners Dundee 1881 Ltd, a special purpose vehicle set up specifically to purchase and invest in the future of the Centre, said the ‘Keiller Quarter’ will introduce a mix of new student homes, commercial space and public realm.

The repurposing of the Centre, which has been failing both financially and structurally for some time, also aims to act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the city centre, boosting the town centre economy through the delivery of a vibrant urban quarter. It follows years of decline and numerous attempts to promote the Centre for other uses.

The new development also provides a significant opportunity to reinstate the historical thoroughfare, as well as introduce new high-quality private and public realm - including greenspaces and lighting - and commercial space.

Together with similar proposals across the city, it could help address that ever-growing demand and has the potential to free up housing more appropriate for families, easing Dundee’s housing shortage.

New student homes will also help to provide tourist accommodation in the heart of the city centre during summer months, helping the wider city centre economy and supporting growing tourist attractions.

The proposals will serve to support Dundee and Angus College’s proposals to relocate its current campus at Dundee Kingsway to a new facility on the site of the Wellgate Shopping Centre.

Between 2016/17 and 2022/23, according to the Higher Education Students Agency (HESA), the number of full-time students at the University of Dundee and Abertay University, have increased by just under a quarter (24%) from 14,475 to 17,950, amounting to 3,475 students.

Indeed, a report by the cross-party group on housing, suggests a shortfall in 2022/23, of 6,084 purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) bedspaces in the city.

An economic impact assessment on behalf of the University of Dundee, indicated that without the growth in student numbers, it is likely that the population of Dundee would have decreased since 2014/15.

As what is classed as a major development in planning terms, there is a requirement to undertake two public consultation events in advance of the submission of an application for planning permission. These will be held on Wednesday 29th January and Thursday 27th February 2025. In advance of the submission of a planning application, anticipated to take place in Spring 2025.

A spokesperson for Dundee 1881 Limited, said: “These exciting proposals will serve to repurpose the Keiller Centre, breathing new life into Dundee city centre through the delivery of a vibrant urban quarter. Keiller Quarter will include much-needed student accommodation, commercial uses and high-quality public realm, supporting local education and stimulating the local economy. 

“After taking stock following our purchase, and trying other initiatives, we recognised that there was no realistic option other than repurposing the Centre, which offers the best option for the site and for the city centre.

“The development will re-establish a sense of place at this location, as well as acting as a catalyst for regeneration, enhancing one of the city’s oldest thoroughfares and bringing new vitality to the area.

“Our proposals are fully in accordance with the Dundee Strategic Investment Plan 2050, which sets out a long-term vision and identifies a wide variety of opportunities, including doubling the number of residents within the recognised town centre area, and doubling the number of visitors and visitor spend in the next 10 years.

“We look forward to engaging with the local community and other key stakeholders as we consult in advance of the submission of a planning application.”