Over 1,400 responses have been recorded on proposals to redevelop Union Terrace Gardens (UTG) in Aberdeen.

Plans for the £20 million project, which have been drawn up by LDA Design, aim to conserve the Victorian park's heritage while enhancing access, amenity and activity.

A public engagement exercise to gather feedback for the development ran from 02 – 09 December.

Proposals include:

• New accessible walkway route into the gardens from Union Street and lift access into the lower level of the gardens through a new entrance building on Union Street

• Lift access from Union Terrace into the upper level of the gardens through a new entrance building on Union Terrace at the existing Burns Monument

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• New disabled parking spaces on Union Terrace directly adjacent to the new accessible walkway routes into the gardens

• Retaining the central lawn space as a flexible space for large scale gathering and events, and a new entrance plaza opposite His Majesty's Theatre to accommodate smaller scale events

• Reinstating the 'grand staircase' as a central part of the new accessible route into the gardens from Rosemount Viaduct

• Retaining maximum number of existing trees as possible

Council leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: "I would like to thank everyone who shared their views.

"The city centre exhibitions were extremely well attended and gave people the chance to quiz the design team directly.

"As well receiving feedback through the surveys, LDA Design were able to hear first-hand from people about what they'd like for UTG."

Kirstin Taylor, Project Director at LDA Design, added: "We have received suggestions on the finish and detailing of materials to assist with accessibility, and on ways to make the Gardens even more inclusive, and reflect a broad spectrum of cultures."

(LM/CD)