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New group aims to shape future of pair of popular Aberdeen parks

An Aberdeen community has banded together in an effort to breathe new life into two of the city’s most popular open spaces.

Residents in the Rosemount and Midstocket area have rallied to form the Friends Of Victoria and Westburn Parks.

The formation of the group was steered by local councillor Bill Cormie who felt more could be done to promote the parks and their facilities. He appealed for locals keen to shape the future of the parks to come forward. Eight residents have signed up so far and met for the first time on Friday [14 October].

Their first project will focus on the restoration of the fountain in Victoria Park, which has been out of action for a number of years. The fountain is unique because it is made from 14 types of granite and was presented to the people of Aberdeen by the city’s former granite polishers and master builders.

The Friends Of group is exploring possible funding options from the Heritage Lottery Fund’s Your Heritage programme, which offers between £3,000 and £50,000, and its Heritage Grants scheme, which offers sums above £50,000.

Future projects could involve offering allotment space in Victoria Park for vegetable and flower planting for the area’s three primary schools, Skene Square, Gilcomstoun and Mile End. Another proposal is tree-planting in Westburn Park.

Cllr Cormie said: “It is imperative that we continue to protect, promote and improve the green spaces we are fortunate to have in the city. The parks at Victoria and Westburn are popular but what they lack is a group dedicated to shaping their future. But now we have that and I hope the parks will go from strength to strength.

“I think it is important that the Friends Of group focus their attention on the fountain just now. It’s an impressive looking structure and will make for a striking focal point when it is back up and running. The vegetable planting for local schoolchildren is also an excellent idea because some of these young folk simply do not have access to gardens at home. I look forward to seeing what the Friends group achieve.”

Aberdeen City Council Environmental Manager Steven Shaw welcomed the formation of the Friends Of Victoria and Westburn Parks group.

He said: “These types of groups play a valuable role in the upkeep and enjoyment of our parks and green spaces. I always find they comprise an enthusiastic group of people who act as an important link between the City Council, the managers of the park and the various different groups of park users.

“Environmental Services fully support this new and exciting opportunity and will work closely with the Friends group to make the partnership a success and ensure improvements and additions to the parks are of benefit to all.”

The 12-acre Victoria Park opened to the public in 1871. It is separated from the neighbouring Westburn Park by Westburn Road. Westburn Park lies in 25 acres and boasts sporting facilities, cycle tracks and a children’s play area.

Anyone interested in joining the Friends Of Victoria and Westburn Parks group is asked to contact Cllr Cormie by e-mailing bcormie@aberdeencity.gov.uk

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