A group of budding architects have unveiled their vision for the future of the north-east’s biggest town.
The final year students at Robert Gordon University (RGU) have created a huge 3D model of Peterhead which showcases their dramatic regeneration ideas for the port.
They deigned the model as the second part of a two-year “Resilient Towns” unit, which will take centre stage in the End of Year Show at the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment.
Each individual student has produced detailed proposals aimed at addressing specific areas of need in the town.
Among the ambitious ideas are plans for a renewables research base drawing on Peterhead’s involvement in the Energetica sustainable energy corridor development, a maritime cultural centre and the establishment of a seafood focused marketplace, cookery school and restaurant.
As part of his project Niall Watson, 23, examined how the reuse of an existing site, structure or building could help breathe new life into the town.
He explained: “It is clear that Peterhead has been affected by the economic climate, as have other towns throughout the north-east.
“There is currently an obvious reliance on its fishing and oil industries, with the activity centered around the harbour area, but looking ahead to the future, how will Peterhead adapt to survive?
“I’ve chosen to relocate Aberdeenshire Council headquarters to an existing building on the edge of the industrial harbour of Peterhead, so it is in keeping with the feel of the area.
“I felt it was appropriate that the local authority’s headquarters be based within the area it represents rather than Aberdeen City and this would help to broaden the range of activity at the harbour area.”
The regeneration project has been led by Professor Gokay Deveci, who said: “Architecture is all about starting a debate and I think the students have done a great job coming up with ideas that will challenge people’s perceptions of Peterhead and which have examined the potential options for regeneration in depth.”
The students’ work will be on display as part of the school’s End of Year show, which runs from June 21-June 28 at the Scott Sutherland School.
