Ambitious plans have been revealed for a six-figure transformation of the area beside Arbroath Abbey to create a new civic space centre at the world famous attraction.
The proposals, which are part of the Arbroath 2020 vision to mark the 700th anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath, include a move for David Annand’s impressive gateway sculpture from beside the A92 to a prominent position in front of the historic ruins.
On Tuesday Angus communities committee councillors be asked to support the £250,000 proposals which represent years of work by the Arbroath 2020 community group, formed in 2014 with a view to marking the 700th anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath, originally issued on April 6 1320.
The group hopes common good ground to the front of the main Abbey entrance could be enhanced and improved to create what council chiefs believe would be an appropriate legacy for Arbroath of the 700th anniversary.
Informal but positive discussions have already taken place with Historic Environment Scotland and Visit Scotland and council director Alan McKeown will ask elected members to throw the authority’s backing behind the Arbroath 2020 plans.
He said the proposals would fit well with improvements and investment already underway.
“The council is currently taking forward a major project in the Abbey Quarter to replace unpopular flats with new high quality council housing for rent,” states his committee report.
“The design for that project has been the subject of extensive consultation, including with Architecture and Design Scotland.
“As the project design very much takes account of the wider urban and historic context around the site itself, council officers have had informal discussions with Arbroath 2020 representatives to consider potential synergies and possibilities for bringing additionality to both the council’s project and proposals from Arbroath 2020, if they can be taken forward in a coordinated way.”
Mr McKeown adds: “The recent Arbroath charette identified an ambition to enhance the town centre environment, to improve the retail experience for both visitors and residents alike, and to re-invigorate the local economy.
“As the space around the Abbey is very much linked to the High Street, it is considered that these proposals would make a substantial contribution to these wider community aspirations.
“Arbroath possesses a fine bronze sculpture of the Declaration by David Annand, currently situated on the A92 at the southern entrance to the town.
“It is difficult for visitors to view when entering the town and is often missed, whilst access on foot is also difficult.
“Members are therefore asked to approve that the sculpture is relocated to the area beside the Abbey entrance as part of the initiative, on the condition that a landscaped planting bed or another appropriate installation is created in its place, funded and maintained by local community groups or the Arbroath common good fund.
“The estimated costs of creating the civic square and relocating the statue are in the region of £250,000.
“These costs would be met by Arbroath 2020 who intend to raise funds through crowdfunding, other donations and appropriate grant applications.”
