Temporary one-way for city street as flagship project progresses

10 January 2020

Union Terrace is to become one-way to traffic for a temporary period to allow work on the regeneration of Union Terrace Gardens (UTG) to advance.

From January 27, traffic will be permitted to travel only in a northbound direction – from Union Street to Rosemount Viaduct – with the restriction expected to be in place until mid-November.

A one-way system is needed to maintain a safe working environment during this phase of the programme, which includes balustrade strengthening, the replacement of the existing arches (which run under the road), slab reinforcement and resurfacing.

Union Terrace Gardens will feature new entrances, pavilions and walkways, flexible events space, sympathetic landscaping, a greater number and variety of trees, bespoke lighting, and the restoration of the Victorian toilets as well as the Union Terrace arches.

Contractor Balfour Beatty has been appointed to deliver the £25.7 million flagship City Centre Masterplan (CCMP) project. UTG is scheduled to re-open in Summer 2021.

Councillor Marie Boulton, spokesperson for the CCMP, said: “We appreciate that a one-way system on Union Terrace may inconvenience some travellers, however during construction we must put the safety of workers and the public first.

“There is a huge prize to be won. The works will enhance Union Terrace Gardens’ existing heritage features and provide a platform for new elements that will greatly improve access and amenity, creating an inclusive garden for the 21st Century.

“This is yet another milestone in the transformation our city centre and is to be welcomed as another step towards making Aberdeen an even more attractive place to visit, work and live.”

The council has been liaising with bus operators and revised service timetables have been drawn up by both First Aberdeen and Stagecoach.