Aberdeenshire Council is set to unveil the latest design proposals for the Fraserburgh birthplace and childhood home of the 'Scottish Samurai', Thomas Blake Glover.

The project aims to transform the Commerce Street plot – vacant for more than 70 years – into a tourism asset and community space for the town.

The site at No.15 will be landscaped into a Japanese-themed courtyard garden and will tell the story of Glover's life – from his beginnings as the Broch-born son of the coastguard, to his career as an entrepreneur in the Far East and his pivotal role in the making of modern Japan.

David Muir, Landscape Architect from award-winning design firm RankinFraser, will be present to answer questions about the designs, and explain about the process.


Banff & Buchan Area Committee chair Cllr Andy Kille said: "This is a great opportunity to find out more about Fraserburgh's proud connections with Thomas Blake Glover and to find out how we plan to recognise that more formally. It's also an opportunity to see inside the Faithlie Centre for those who haven't had the chance to visit yet."

Cllr Brian Topping, chair of the Fraserburgh Regeneration Development Partnership, said: "The Commerce Street project is part of our ongoing regeneration work to bring a number of sites in Fraserburgh back into use while recognising and celebrating the town's history and achievements, and we look forward to it progressing."

Alison Simpson, Community Engagement Officer for Fraserburgh 2021, said: "We're keen for residents to see the plans and talk about all the factors that will influence the final appearance of this Memorial to Thomas Glover.

"Anyone interested in town centre improvements being made through the Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme is welcome to stop by for a chat and a cup of tea."

Fraserburgh 2021 and Regeneration Funds plus private contributions have been secured to contribute to the delivery of the project.

(MH/JG)