Aberdeen’s huge beachfront transformation is moving towards completion as work resumes on one of the most eye-catching features of the £58m project.
New play areas, a skate landscape, amphitheatre and events space are taking shape as part of a major overhaul intended to transform the city’s seafront into a new destination for families, visitors and major events.
The development includes what Aberdeen City Council says will be the largest free-to-access play and activity park in Scotland.
At its centre will be a distinctive 23-metre-high play tower forming part of the Rope Factory – a bespoke attraction inspired by Aberdeen’s historic rope-making industry.
Work on the tower had stalled following a contractual dispute which resulted in Newburgh-based KR Group withdrawing from the project.
Construction has now resumed after Moray firm AJ Engineering was brought in to provide resources for installation work at the site.
The tower is expected to open later than the rest of the play park, with the wider development remaining on course for completion this autumn.
The new beach park has been designed with input from young people across Aberdeen, who worked with the project team to help shape its attractions.
Alongside the tower and play areas will be a purpose-built skate landscape designed by European skatepark specialist Betongpark.
A 2.5-hectare events field is also being created with an amphitheatre and capacity for festivals, concerts and other gatherings involving up to 11,000 people.
Five new buildings and shelters are being constructed across the play and events areas.
The section of Beach Boulevard between Links Road and the Esplanade has meanwhile been permanently closed to vehicles and incorporated into the new park, creating additional space for walking and cycling.
Aberdeen City Council said finishing work on the events field, play area and skate landscape would continue over the coming weeks.
Internal work is also progressing on the new buildings.
The beachfront project forms part of the council’s wider £150m City Centre and Beach Master Plan, which is also transforming major parts of central Aberdeen.
Other projects include the new Flint city-centre market, improvements to Union Street and the redevelopment of Castlegate.
The former Aberdeen Beach Leisure Centre has already been demolished, while the Lynx Ice Arena remains open.
Further plans for the seafront include a replacement leisure centre, improvements to the historic Beach Ballroom, a proposed beach village and a new clubhouse for swimmers, surfers and lifesaving groups.
The council hopes the investment will reconnect the city centre with the seafront/