First part of £50m Aberdeen beachfront redevelopment officially opened

Delivered by main contractor Robertson Construction Group for hub North Scotland – Aberdeen City Council’s development and delivery partner for the wider masterplan – the much-loved local landmark has been completely transformed. 

Spanning five hectares, Broadhill now includes new access steps, footpaths, viewpoints, drystone walls, timber and concrete seating, and extensive landscaping. 

More than 10,000 new trees, shrubs and ground vegetation have been planted across the site, enhancing the natural environment and boosting the area’s ecological value. 

The redevelopment of Broadhill forms part of the largest transformation of Aberdeen beach in 35 years. Work is already well under way by Robertson on a new beach park and large events field, with the Broadhill improvements completed in time for visitors to enjoy the site as a viewing point during the Tall Ships Race (19–22 July). 

Aberdeen’s Lord Provost, Councillor David Cameron, marked the occasion with a cup of tea and a traditional Aberdeen ‘rowie’, enjoyed at one of the striking new viewpoints overlooking the coastline. 

The Lord Provost said: “This is an exciting occasion to toast with the first part of the beachfront works finished. As thousands of people come into the city for the Tall Ships Races, the revamped Broadhill with additional seating and a viewpoint will be a prime place to watch the vessels sail into the harbour as well as the spectacular Red Arrows display.” 

Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “The opening of Broadhill is the first completed project as part of the overall transformation of Aberdeen’s beach. Being the trusted delivery partner, we understand the importance of bringing the vision of Aberdeen City Council and the local community to life.  

“Working closely with hub North Scotland and the Council, significant progress is being made in the creation of well-designed, connected spaces which will be home to high-quality facilities. The vision to redevelop the beach will benefit the community through the provision of public realm spaces that will inspire wellbeing and activity and contribute to the local and regional economy.” 

Richard Park, chief executive of hub North Scotland, added: “This is a landmark moment for the beach redevelopment with the transformation of Broadhill and the progress on the other works. Robertson has done a fantastic job in completing the Broadhill and every day now you can see the progress on the rest of the area. This will be a ‘must-visit’ destination when completed.” 

Aberdeen City Council’s Co-Leaders welcomed today’s opening as the first project to be completed in the ambitious Aberdeen City Centre and Beach Master Plan. 

Co-leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “It is good to see the first of the beach works finished as the first of the City Centre and Beach Master Plan projects.  We hope many generations to come will make good use of the changes at Broadhill. The beachfront is one of the jewels in the city’s crown and the work taking place in the area will further transform the beach area for the enjoyment of everyone.”

Co-leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “We welcome the works finishing at Broadhill. As work continues at the beach, I am looking forward to more of the works finishing and people of all ages being able to make use of the great new facilities. 

“The Council is committed to working with Aberdeen’s residents, beach users, partner organisations, and businesses at the beach to make Aberdeen beach and the Links the envy of other cities and a place where local people and visitors alike will want to visit to again and again.”