Plans to revamp Aberdeen’s Duthie Park

VOLUNTEERS are hoping to restore Aberdeen’s historic Duthie Park to its former glory.

Dozens turned up at the David Welch Winter Gardens for the first meeting in an attempt to resurrect the ailing Friends of Duthie Park group.

Steps have already been taken to secure £2.8 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund to revamp Duthie Park.

The proposed plans would look into detailed costs for upgrading Duthie Park’s ponds and famous rose garden, as well as restoring grass areas and water features.

Aberdeen City Council has said it will match the lottery cash for the Duthie Park project if it is granted.

And Friends of Duthie Park chairman Tony Dawson was delighted with the support from the public at the meeting.

And he said the Duthie Park revamp project was a great opportunity for Aberdeen.

Ian Esslemont, a design development officer for Aberdeen City Council, said he felt the Duthie Park plans would put Aberdeen back on the map in terms of Scottish heritage.

He said: “The overall revamp of Duthie Park would be fantastic, to really bring the park back to what it used to be like.”

Mr Dawson, a partner in law firm James and George Collie, added: “We have to have all of our information gathered by June and a decision will then be made on whether we get the lottery funding for Duthie Park.”

arennie@ajl.co.uk