Originally opened in 1879, Aberdeen’s Union Terrace Gardens is a historic Victorian park that has recently undergone a significant £28.3 million rejuvenation. The project was led by LDA Design and involved a collaboration between Balfour Beatty, Ashlea Ltd, Johnsons Nurseries, and other partners. The revitalization aimed to restore the gardens’ historical features while introducing modern amenities to enhance accessibility and public enjoyment.
Photo credit: Chris Swan Photography
Over time, Union Terrace Gardens had experienced decline, with overgrown vegetation, outdated facilities, and limited accessibility. The challenge was to restore the gardens’ historical charm while incorporating contemporary features to meet current public needs. This included improving accessibility for all visitors, enhancing biodiversity, and creating spaces for cultural and social activities, all while preserving the site’s heritage.
Photo credit: Chris Swan Photography
The project team implemented a comprehensive plan that included:
Soft Landscaping: Ashlea Ltd was awarded the soft landscaping contract by Balfour Beatty. In partnership with Johnsons Nurseries, they supplied over £215,000 worth of plants, encompassing 130 different varieties. Notably, a custom hand-grown city crest was created using gold and green Ilex crenata.
Accessibility Improvements: New wheelchair-friendly routes were constructed to ensure inclusivity.
Modern Amenities: The addition of three new pavilions provided spaces for cafes, restaurants, and cultural events.
Restoration Efforts: Historic arches and Victorian toilets were refurbished, and statues of notable figures were cleaned.
Biodiversity Enhancement: Over 20,000 plants were introduced to increase biodiversity, including species such as Primula vulgaris, Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’, Brunnera, Ajuga reptans ‘Atropurpurea’, and Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’.
Photo credit: Chris Swan Photography
The revitalization of Union Terrace Gardens has transformed it into a vibrant and accessible urban space. The project has been recognized with several accolades, including:
Gold Award at the 2024 Scottish Design Awards for Public Building and another Gold Award for Lighting.
Project of the Year and Public Realm Project at the ASA Design Awards 2024.
2023 CECA Scotland Place Making Award.
The successful collaboration between Ashlea Ltd and Johnsons Nurseries has not only restored a historic landmark but also provided a rejuvenated space for the community to enjoy for generations to come.
Photo credit: Chris Swan Photography
