Aberdeen’s project to involve young people in the Beach Masterplan won the People's Choice award at the Scottish Planning Innovation Awards yesterday (21 March).
Children and young people from around the city took part in stakeholder engagement sessions last year helping to shape the new attractions. The award recognises innovation in working with all age groups, excellence in leadership or achievement.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “It is great to see the council’s work in engaging young people in the Beach Masterplan being recognised. “Involving young people in plans is important to shape our city for future generations.”
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “It is important that we engage with our children and young people on the key themes and elements of the Beach Masterplan.
“Winning this award highlights our commitment to involving young people in our future plans.”
The main features of the Beach Park include a play park, sports area/pump track, gateway building, hub building, and canopy features.
The play park will provide a significantly-sized outdoor destination, facilitate connections to the city centre, create a focus for activity, and will act as a key ‘gateway’ into the wider park and the beach. The seaside location and the rope factory that was once located to the south of the site have both been key inspirations that have helped shape the design of the play area.
The Scottish Planning Innovation Award programmes showcase outstanding achievements in planning. The awards celebrate the contribution made by the planning profession to communities, and to raise awareness and understanding of the work of the industry.