NEW CGI images have been released as progress continues on construction works across Aberdeen as part of the £150 million City Centre and Beach Masterplan (CCBMP).
Updates to Aberdeen City Council’s finance and resources committee included that the start of works to the Castlegate will take place immediately after the Tall Ships event finishes in July. Progress is also being made concerning works at Union Street Central and the beachfront.
The report to committee said works to the Castlegate will mean it will play an important part in delivery of the city’s events programme, capable of hosting a range of small-scale events, as well as being an important gateway to the beach. The project comprises public realm and streetscaping improvements including street furniture, public art, improved lighting, enhanced street greening, and an active travel route.
An area of loose flagstones has been lifted and replaced with a temporary tarmac surface for safety. Further site investigation works will take place so the main construction works can start after the Tall Ships event in July 2025.
The report said the works to Union Street Central will mean the space will be reapportioned in favour of walking, wheeling, riding users, and public transport whilst still allowing for service vehicle access. It includes a two-way 3m-wide cycle track and public seating.
Practical completion of phase A of the beachfront works – including a beach park, events park, and Broad Hill – should be reached in late summer 2026.The core play park will create a focus for activity and will act as a key ‘gateway’ into the wider park and the beach.
The Events Park is intended as a flexible space capable of holding events including festivals, larger concerts, and gatherings.
The vision for Broadhill is to enhance the natural environment of this distinctive feature through additional planting, furthering the diversity of habitat, and ecological value.
Councillor Alex McLellan, finance and resources committee convener, said, “Aberdeen City Council is investing in the significant transformation of the city centre and beachfront to make place people want to live, work, study, do business or invest. The Castlegate works will be running alongside the existing construction taking place on Union Street and the beachfront and, once finished, these developments will make a major difference to the city and ensure our city centre is a place both residents and visitors can continue to enjoy.”
Councillor Ian Yuill, co-leader, added, “The city centre and beach areas will be significantly improved through the agreed construction works. These are major investments to upgrade the city for the benefit of all. The beachfront will experience its biggest redevelopment for 35 years. The new facilities will offer amazing new facilities to young people, families and individuals of all ages. The aim is to make the city centre and beach a more attractive and desirable place for all to enjoy.”
The report said works on site to all areas progressing on programme. The updates include:
Beach park:
- Drainage well progressed;
- Foundations work has started on the canopy and gateway building;
- The hub building consents are now in place;
- Superstructure orders are being procured by the contractor.
Events field:
- Drainage is well progressed across the area;
- Canopy foundations are in place;
- Amphitheatre foundations have started;
- Car park drainage and formation work is complete.
Broadhill:
- Access steps from Links Road are in place and moving towards completion;
- Seating and viewing points are due for installation over the next month;
- Landscaping work has started.
