The team which will lead a major revamp of Aberdeen city-centre has been revealed.
Building Design Partnership (BDP) was selected from a shortlist of six bidders to devise the proposals.
One of Europe’s leading landscape architects, the firm was behind the development of Robert Gordon University’s Garthee campus and the award-winning Victoria Square in Belfast.
Other projects include the Liverpool One development, Aintree racecourse and the Glasgow Science Centre.
Aberdeen City Council deputy leader Marie Boulton, chairwoman of the City Centre Regeneration Board, said it was an important milestone.
“We cannot simply wave a magic wand to improve the city centre, but with BDP’s expertise and by consulting widely with the public and other stakeholders, we can identify a range of projects which will make a marked and very positive difference to the city centre,” she said.
The announcement comes after Councillor Boulton admitted there was no plan in place to redevelop the heart of Aberdeen – almost two years after the City Garden Project was controversially rejected.
It is understood the new scheme will aim to improve connections to and from the city’s railway station.
SNP group leader councillor Callum McCaig welcomed the appointment of BDP.
He said: “The work they will do over the next nine months is fundamentally important for the future of the city and the economy.
“I look forward to working with them to ensure we have something that meets the needs and the aspirations of the city.”
In addition to the city centre masterplan – which will include detailed proposals for the Denburn Valley area –
tstudy will include the east and west gateways of Castlegate and Holburn, the potential offered by the North Dee/Palmerston area, future proposals for Aberdeen Harbour and transport and connectivity.
Dominic Fairlie, chairman of Aberdeen Civic Society, said: “I hope that BDP come up with something that is a good solution and in keeping with Aberdeen – one which respects the city’s heritage and history.”