Project Planning Grants
Listed in the Scottish Inventory of Designed Landscapes and Gardens, Duthie Park is comprised of two elements: a traditional park and the David Welch Winter Garden, a collection of glasshouses.
The quality of the designed landscape had severely degraded along with the quality of the visitor experience. The project, delivered by Aberdeen City Council, used a conservation-led scheme to greatly enhance the physical features of the park including the linked ponds, the original McKelvie rockeries, the Duthie fountain, boundary walls and railings.
The number of dedicated staff for the park was increased in order to properly manage and maintain the site, increase the number and range of users, and provide volunteering and training opportunities.
The biodiversity of the park was also improved through the creation of a wildflower meadow, a biodiversity pond and nature trail, and native tree planting. A horticultural demonstration space and community garden was also created.
Over one million visits were recorded to the park since the project was completed, with lots of positive feedback from the community.
“Volunteers in the park are encouraged to become part of a team helping to develop their confidence, learn new skills and be valued for their commitment to volunteering, led by the Ranger Service."