A £90,000 ecological project in the heart of an Aberdeen park was officially opened to the public yesterday.
The Seaton Wetlands Project has transformed Seaton Park’s wetlands into a new visitor attraction filled with wildflowers.
Volunteers and members of Friends of Seaton Park came out to help put the finishing touches to the area before it was officially opened by city council leader Jenny Laing.
Inspired by the success of the East Tullos Burn Environment Improvements Project at St Fittick’s Park, the project
included digging out the wetland, repairing drainage, adding paths, installing signs and planting flowers.
A manmade wetland with natural plants and a wooden viewing point has been created to enhance the natural bio-diversity, attract more wildlife and greater community use.
Mrs Laing said: “This is a wonderful project and I’m very happy to be officially opening it.
“Seaton Park is already a popular place to go for people to relax in or take part in sporting activities, so having the wetlands area here will be a big draw for families and wildlife watchers.”
The city council-led project was carried out in partnership with Friends of Seaton of Park.
Chairwoman Sheila Gordon said: “It’s great to see the final touches being put to the project with so many volunteers come to help with the last of the planting.
“We’re looking forward to the greater diversity of plants and animals which this project will bring to the park – having such an attraction in the park will further enhance what is already a popular place to visit.”
Two new paths have also been created in the park, one to the east behind the rugby pitch and the other to the west, linking the boardwalk towards Donside village.
As well as funding from Aberdeen City Council, some of the funding came from Aberdeen Greenspace, and sustainable transport charity Sustrans.
The combined total for both projects at Seaton Park is estimated at £200,000.
