The head of Aberdeen University has given his backing to plans to revitalise the city centre – and urged politicians to act with “urgency” to deliver the changes.
Sir Ian Diamond, principal and vice-chancellor of the university, said the ancient institution was ready to join forces with other groups and “play our part” in improving the heart of the city.
Aberdeen City Council published its long-awaited masterplan for the centre on Tuesday, with councillors due to discuss the proposals next week.
A total of 49 projects were put forward in a document prepared by the BDP consultants, including schemes to pedestrianise much of Union Street, Guild Street and Upperkirkgate, as well as major revamps of shopping centres, new rail stations and links, and bridges to Union Terrace Gardens.
However, concerns have been expressed about several of the proposals, and questions were raised about how they will be funded.
Sir Ian was speaking at the end of a week in which more than 1,000 proud parents and relatives flocked to the Granite City this week for the university’s annual summer graduations.
He said: “We have enjoyed, as an Aberdeen family, a wonderful week in the splendid setting of King’s College remarked on by so many visitors and local residents alike and kindling wonderful memories for returning alumni.
“In September thousands of new students from all over the UK and the world will descend on the Granite City, eager to experience for themselves everything that they expect from a world-ranked university in a beautiful region recognised for its quality of life and achievements in so many fields.”
He added: “Creating a city centre to match our proud history, our commitment to quality of life and environmental sustainability – and our ambitions for our city and region on an international stage – is a priority the urgency of which cannot be under-estimated.
“The masterplan unveiled this week by Aberdeen City Council presents the opportunity to create the city that our communities, public services, businesses – and the providers of world-class education and life-changing research – deserve.
“It is imperative that we do not miss or delay this chance to create an environment in which we can all thrive and grow, and which will serve as a magnet for inward investment, tourism, talent and enterprise.
“This is a time for partnership and for rising together to this challenge. We at the University of Aberdeen are ready to play our part.”