Work on one of Dundee’s most recognisable buildings has been criticised after it was started before planning consent was granted.
Karen McAulay was shocked to see the steps removed at the category A-listed Caird Hall on April 5, so took pictures, but when she tried to find out more she discovered the work was “unauthorised”.
A formal application was submitted for the replacement of the steps and ramp to the Caird and Marryat Halls, on April 4, but listed building consent was not granted until April 29.
A Dundee City Council spokesman said the development in the City Square left the hall at risk from water damage so the work had to be “speeded up”.
The spokesman said: “The council consulted Historic Scotland before any work was undertaken on the Caird Hall steps.
“Officials from Historic Scotland knew exactly what we intended to do and did not object.
“The work programme was speeded up because when slabs were removed as part of the City Square refurbishment, there was a danger of water ingress at the steps.
“This would have caused costly damage under the area of the steps unless we moved quickly to rectify the situation.
“The council applied for listed building consent, following discussions with Historic Scotland, and this was granted.”