The charming Town Plan blueprint of 1870 labels this area as the bustling working hub of Seabraes Engine Works and Seabraes Mill. Railway tracks and carriage turn tables intricately fan out from the platforms that served engine sheds, Manager's house, Smithy, Joiner shop, warehouses, flax, sack, paper and saw Mill.
It all looks rather different now, but for more than a hundred years this elevated site has been a focal point, a meeting point, perhaps a resting point, where people will have stopped to pause and admire the Tay view amidst the clanking and the wheels, the spinning and the hustle and bustle of city life.
The proposal for this small public space is to revive its current character as a resting point with a stunning view. We want to bring it up to date and give it longevity, using sturdy stylish materials and create a new landscape that uses plants that are ecologically and aesthetically sympathetic to place. Attractive low maintenance planting will provide seasonal interest not forgetting to retain most of the majestic Cabbage palm trees. A good amount of grass will be protected for picnics.
As the site sits within a Conservation Area, we want to echo the past but bring it into the future. The mini-Bandstand (a model of the Magdalen Green bandstand built in 1890) will retain its pride of place with a classy lick of paint. Cobbles reclaimed from the original city's streets will be integrated as feature paving. Original sections of railway track will run through the space retaining a link to the historic industries of the past.
The new proposal is a sustainable long-term approach for Seabraes, using perennial planting and shrubs that are suited to the changing climate, requiring much less energy to transport and maintain. They will also provide for biodiversity as well as looking beautiful all year round.
It is hoped the project can begin on site Spring 2022, once full consultation and approvals have been met.
*** Please note this consultation has now closed ***