The Union Terrace Gardens in Aberdeen have always been a part of the city and this project aimed to develop the gardens which over time, had became run-down, overgrown and a focus for anti-social behaviour. 

Redevelopment of the gardens included three new pavilions, a new bridge and aerial walkways. The central lawn provides a space for community events, while lighting adds to the experiential drama and improves safety. Accessible routes were developed in close consultation with disability groups and the granite staircase into the lower gardens was rebuilt to provide wheelchair access. 

The gardens are also now more climate-resilient, with their biodiversity significantly enhanced, biodiverse sedum roofs, rainwater harvesting and new sustainable drainage throughout the gardens help to manage surface water run-off. 

When considering the project for the awards the jury thought this an exceptionally well-considered and civically-minded scheme that renews and revitalises a historic set‑piece space in the heart of Aberdeen.

Read about the Award Success as well as more detail about the Union Terrace Gardens re-opening page.