Six months on from a failed soft opening, Union Terrace Gardens remain 'weeks away'

Council Co-Leader Ian Yuill says he's "frustrated" by more delays

Author: Finlay JackPublished 26th Oct 2022
Last updated 26th Oct 2022

Union Terrace Gardens remain "a matter of weeks away" from opening.

The project is seemingly no closer to completion than at the start of the month, with council chiefs providing the same update then.

And exactly six months after a proposed 'soft opening' was cancelled, Co-Leader of Aberdeen City Council Ian Yuill says he's "frustrated" by the delays.

The former Labour/Conservative administration had proposed the opening just days before May's local elections, but were forced to cancel due to "supply chain issues".

'Foolish' to set a date

Unlike their predecessors, the current SNP/Liberal Democrat administration won't announce a date for its opening.

Councillor Yuill said: "I want to see the gardens finished, everyone in Aberdeen wants to see the gardens finished, because we want to get our green heart of the city back and accessible to people.

"But we are absolutely not going to announce any dates because that would be foolish - it's not in our control.

"The gardens are due to be completed in a matter of week and like everyone else in Aberdeen I look forward to that happening."

Supply chain issues continue

With heavy machinery still littered across the site, the Lib Dem Group Leader added that supply issues with materials, such as granite, remain a problem.

"As we understand it the major issues have been the supply chain issues that just simply the contractor can't obtain the materials that are required.

"I'm frustrated at how long this is taking, but I want to see it completed and open as soon as possible".

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