Dinosaur Trail brings roar-some fun and increased business footfall to city centre

29/10/2024

Locals and visitors alike took part in a new dinosaur trail in the city centre throughout the October holidays.  

The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail was a two-week event from 12th to 27th October which saw 18 brick model dinosaurs placed in businesses across the city centre, with free car parking also available in two city centre car parks.  

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Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “It has been wonderful to see so many people taking part in the Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail and exploring our city centre.  

“My grandchildren loved the trail, and I would like to extend my thanks to each business who took part and helped create a fun and exciting atmosphere across the city centre.”  

Education and Children’s Services Convener Councillor Martin Greig said: “This has been a great way for all ages to visit the city centre and take part in a fun new event.  

“Dinosaurs are always a popular attraction for children and adults alike and has helped capture imaginations.”  

Visitors taking part in the trail were able to get an insight into how each model was made and learn more about the creations, including how many bricks were used to build the model and learn a fun dinosaur fact.  

Monica and her family from Aberdeen said: “This has been lovely for the children and a great free activity to do. We have enjoyed walking around the city doing the trail.”  

Businesses taking part in the trail recorded seeing increased footfall, with the Maritime Museum having had its busiest week since 2019.  

Kenny Bruce, Trinity Centre Aberdeen Manager, said: “Trinity Aberdeen was delighted to take part in the Ionic Bricks Dinosaur Trail this year, the event has brought increased visitors to the centre and seen our stores offer unique dinosaur discounts in Shot n Roll and Resting Brunch Face, even a special guest appearance from The Works mascot Rex the Dinosaur.  

“It’s fantastic to support an event that offers customers a chance to come and explore our city centre.” 

Lynne Clark, Communications Lead for Michies Pharmacy, said: “The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail has been a roaring success for Michies! It has been a joy to see so many children and families through our doors, many of whom have never visited Michies before. It was a wonderful initiative to get people out and about having fun and exploring our city centre!” 

The Hidden Lego Minifigure Trail also ran throughout the October Holidays, which saw small Lego figures hidden across ten shop windows around the Upperkirkgate and Belmont Street area for people of all ages to find in a treasure-hunt style challenge.  

Once each minifigure was found, there was the chance to enter into a prize draw to win an Aberdeen Gift Card worth £20.  

Additional activities also took place throughout the October Holidays across businesses taking part in the trail, including storytelling and dinosaur-themed Bookbug.  

The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail received £30,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

Free weekend parking is still available in the Denburn and Frederick Street car parks throughout October and the first weekend in November. Parking for £1 will be available after 5pm at Virginia Street, the Gallowgate, Frederick Street, Summer Street, Chapel Street, West North Street and the Denburn. Normal charging rates will resume from 8am.  

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