Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes

Introduction

In the Aberdeen Local Plan (2008), Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes are covered by the following policy:

Policy 32: HISTORIC GARDENS AND DESIGNED LANDSCAPES Planning permission for development that would have an adverse effect on the character or setting of a site listed in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland or in any addition to the Inventory will be refused unless: the objectives of designation and the overall integrity and character of the designated area will not be compromised; or any significant adverse effects on the qualities for which the area has been designated are clearly outweighed by social, economic and strategic benefits of national importance. In both cases mitigation and appropriate measures shall be taken to conserve and enhance the essential characteristics, aesthetics, archaeological and historic value and setting of the site.

The only site listed in Aberdeen City is the Duthie Park and Winter Gardens, which is a good example of a 19th century public park that retains its original layout and for the involvement of a named designer. It is a public park and was included in the Historic Scotland 'List of Gardens and Designed Landscapes' in 2006.

Values

Work of Art: The layout of the park gives this site high value as a work of art.

Historical: The recorded history of the site and the involvement of a named designer gives the site outstanding historical value.

Horticultural: The cacti collection and other exotic plants under glass give this site outstanding horticultural value. The glass houses includes the largest collection of cacti in Britain.

Scenic: There are views into the southern end of the park from Riverside Drive. There are more extensive views into the site from south of the river.

Archaeological: June 2010 - An archaeological dig at Aberdeen's Duthie Park has uncovered what is thought to be the stone steps which lead to the pond; an original feature of the 1883 park layout. The circular pond is situated in the lower car park area however it was infilled in the 1920s when the model yachting pond was extended. The city's lead curator for local history and archaeology Judith Stones said: "The purpose of the dig was to find out what remained of two original features of the park; a circular pond and an adjacent staircase. The dig has uncovered some interesting finds. It is believed that these are traces of the pond and a flight of steps nearby which are well preserved."

Architectural: Many of the various monuments, lodges and structures are Listed Buildings.

Nature Conservation: The green space in the urban city centre area provides a small amount of nature conservation value.

Location

Duthie Park is situated off Riverside Drive. There are views of the River Dee from the southern parts of the park. There are views within the park and across the broad central green. 

• Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes: Duthie Park(pdf)

Miss Elizabeth Crombie Duthie's portrait painted by renowned local artist James Coutts Michie in 1885.

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you require further information on "Gardens and Designed Landscapes" please contact us.

 

Contacts

• Masterplanning, Design and Conservation
  Enterprise, Planning and Infrastructure
  Aberdeen City Council
  Business Hub 4
  Marischal College
  Broad Street
  Aberdeen
  AB10 1AB
  Phone: 01224 522155
  Fax: 01224 523180
  Email: pi@aberdeencity.gov.uk