The 39-year-old man, who has not yet been named, was treated at the scene by paramedics and taken to hospital but later died.

Work on the shopping centre expansion at Westhill was suspended after the incident and police have launched an investigation.

The man who died was working for a firm sub-contracted to Barr Construction and is understood he is from the Dundee area.

The incident happened on Tuesday afternoon between 2pm-3pm at the rear of the work site, neighbouring both the Holiday Inn and Town and Country Veterinary Group.

A spokesperson for Barr Construction confirmed: “A member of one of our sub-contractor’s staff fell ill on site yesterday and was taken by ambulance to hospital where he later died. The site was closed today as a mark of respect.”

The spokesperson added that the tragedy was a non-work related incident.

A Health and Safety Executive spokeswoman said it was “aware” of the incident and was making inquiries.

A police spokeswoman added: “Police Scotland can confirm that officers were made aware of the death of a 39-year-old man from the Dundee area, who collapsed whilst working on a construction site in Westhill.

“Investigations are ongoing into the man’s death, however there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.

“As with all sudden deaths, a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.”

Work on the shopping centre expansion started in September last year and is expected to be finished by the spring.