Aberdeen’s civic square plans to help in culture bid
Call to include proposed revamp
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A NEW civic square could help Aberdeen land the UK City of Culture title, a business chief said today.
Tom Smith is calling on council bosses to bid for the UK City of Culture title – and make a proposed revamp of the Aberdeen city centre part of the package.
Aberdeen is one of 29 areas to express an interest in the Westminster Government culture award, which could see it hosting events like the Brits and the television BAFTAs.
Mr Smith, chairman of development body Aberdeen City and Shire Economic Future, said the bid would be strengthened by the creation of a civic square above the Denburn Valley.
And he predicted winning the UK City of Culture title could help pay back costs.
Mr Smith said: “This is a great opportunity for Aberdeen.”
Aberdeen City Council is looking at three options for the Denburn Valley – revamping Union Terrace Gardens, partially covering the space, or bridging the gap between Union Street, Union Terrace, Denburn Viaduct and Belmont Street.
Aberdeen tycoon Sir Ian Wood has offered £50 million towards covering the space – a vision shared by ACSEF.
The Aberdeen civic square development could cost £110-£140m and be completed by 2014.
However, Mr Smith said the finish date could be brought forward to coincide with the City of Culture award in 2013.
Aberdeen City Council officers are putting together a report on a possible bid, which will be considered by councillors on October 8.
For more on this story, pick up a copy of today’s Evening Express
