A much-loved corner of Mintlaw’s Aden Country Park has been revitalised following a £39,000 funding boost, bringing new life to its dedicated carers and sensory gardens.
The restoration project, supported by more than £37,000 from the Just Transition Participatory Budget Fund and an additional £2,000 from the Friends of Aden, has transformed the gardens into a more accessible and engaging space for visitors of all ages and abilities. Delivered through a partnership between Friends of Aden and Aberdeenshire Council, the improvements aim to enhance both physical access and the overall wellbeing benefits of the site.
Extensive groundworks formed a key part of the upgrade, including the removal of old boundary fencing and the installation of new, safer alternatives. Accessibility has been significantly improved with the addition of a wheelchair-friendly ramp, while damaged raised beds were removed and recycled to refurbish existing planters. New seating and planters have also been introduced, alongside repairs to concrete features.
Planting has focused on sensory-rich species designed to stimulate sight, smell, touch and sound, while also encouraging biodiversity and attracting wildlife. Further enhancements include the installation of native wildlife chainsaw sculptures, wind chimes and a water feature, creating a calming and immersive environment.
Interpretive signage and panels have also been added, offering visitors insight into the history, purpose and restoration of the gardens, as well as their benefits for mental health and wellbeing.
Originally established as the first garden in the UK specifically designed for carers, Aden’s carers’ garden provides a peaceful space for relaxation, connection and respite. With three in five people in the UK expected to become unpaid carers at some point in their lives, the space plays an important role in supporting both carers and those they look after.
The adjoining sensory garden continues to offer therapeutic, educational and recreational opportunities, helping to reduce stress, improve focus and support emotional and sensory development through interactive natural features.
Friends of Aden Chairperson Sheila Dargie praised the collaborative effort behind the project, saying: “After three months of hard work, we are delighted with the improvements made to the Carers’ and Sensory Gardens at Aden Country Park. It is wonderful to see these much-loved spaces thriving once again, ensuring they continue to provide a safe, peaceful haven where visitors of all ages can connect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the park.
“We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the project, including the Just Transition Participatory Budget Fund, Aberdeenshire Council, our contractors, and, of course, our dedicated volunteers. Their support, commitment and hard work have helped enhance these valued facilities for the benefit of the whole community.”
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Councillor Dianne Beagrie, Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Buchan Area Committee, added: “It’s wonderful to see an empowered community working with the council to improve their local area. It’s collaborations like this that highlight the power of partnership working, where the council can really complement the activity of community groups. My thanks to everyone who had a hand in bringing this project to fruition. I’m confident that these improved gardens will be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike for years to come.”
The refurbished gardens were officially opened on Friday, 12 June 2026, coinciding with Carers Week, the UK-wide campaign recognising the vital role of unpaid carers.
Since its launch in 2022, the Scottish Government’s Just Transition Participatory Budget Fund has distributed more than £4.5 million to over 180 community-led, environmentally focused projects across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray.
