Aberdeen City Council has approved plans for a creative lighting strategy and implementation plan across the city.

The Aberdeen in Colour project aims to help create a heart for a "global city" by illuminating the streetscape, landmarks, waterfronts and civic spaces in novel ways to add character and identity at night.

Drawn up by lighting design consultancy Steensen Varming, the five-year implementation plan proposes a number of individual schemes and has been costed at £6.5 million.

A public survey outlined a number of priorities for the plan;

• Illuminating iconic architecture

• Engaging public spaces at night

• Surprising lighting features

• Illuminating bridges

• Activating laneways

• Seasonal responsive lighting

In addition to general design guidelines, the plan includes schemes for the Castlegate; Union Street; Belmont Street; Langstane Place; Correction Wynd; Golden Square; Wellington and Victoria Bridges; the banks of the River Dee; St Nicholas Kirk; The Green; Donald's Way; and Adelphi Lane.


The council's Finance, Policy and Resources Committee (FP&R) have also instructed officers to initiate action to implement Aberdeen in Colour through the development of businesses cases, including working with partners to explore potential funding streams, and to report to future meetings.

Aberdeen Inspired, the banner under which the Business Improvement District operates, is poised to commit £118,000 to Aberdeen in Colour

Council Co-Leader Douglas Lumsden said: "The City Centre Masterplan makes clear that in order to compete on a global stage Aberdeen needs to be welcoming and exciting whatever time of day or year.

"Aberdeen in Colour describes how we might continue to showcase Aberdeen's unique streetscape and architecture during the hours of darkness as well as adding new interest and better connecting the city centre.

"The proposals have been thoroughly costed, which will help ensure we are satisfying best value requirements when assessing individual projects that come forward."

Cllr Marie Boulton added: "Aberdeen in Colour can transform the city's heart in so many different ways – by improving wayfinding, increasing safety and inclusion, and complementing cultural events."

(LM)