April 19 2011

A competition to design a controversial new garden for Aberdeen has been launched by Malcolm Reading Consultants.

The winning scheme would top a £140m project to transform Union Terrace Gardens into a giant new public square incorporating an “inspirational” building for the arts, a natural amphitheatre for public gatherings, a café quarter and a covered concourse connecting bus and railway stations with both the green and Union Square.

Reading said: “This is a chance for any designer, passionate about cities and how to make them inspiring and alive, to make their name and reputation."

Bid teams must comprise an urban designer, architect, engineers, landscape architect and cost consultant and submit entries prior to June 13. Shortlisted schemes set to be unveiled in July, ahead of an announcement on the winning bid in December.

An honorarium of £7,500 will be awarded to each unsuccessful team following the unveiling of the winner.

City Square was unexpectedly approved last May when Aberdeen councilors voted in favour of the proposal over a competing arts scheme from Brisac Gonzalez – despite being rejected by 55% of the public vote.

It could conceivably be complete by 2016 if the cash strapped council can plug a n £70m black hole in the schemes budget.

Post your comments

Your name (required)
Your email (not displayed)
Comments (required)
	All comments are pre-moderated and must obey our house rules.