In progressing to this point, we have already achieved the following:
- Commissioned specialist surveys and reports costing £76,000
- Cleared over 30 years of neglected vegetation
- Purchased a twelfth flat to augment our income stream
- Stabilised, repointed and made safe the garden walls at a cost of £136,000
- Installed drainage and utilities (electricity, water and CCTV cabling) throughout the gardens at a cost of £38,000
- Planted up the western border ahead of opening to the public
- Achieved a soft opening to the public of the gardens in June 2019
- Rented office space within 2 minutes’ walk of the gardens in the centre of Ellon
- Fully restored the Schedule A listed sundial at a cost of £12,100
- Recruited a loyal band of volunteers to work alongside our gardener, and man the visitor gate and office during opening hours
- Established the Patrons of Ellon Castle Gardens
- Established a partnership with Ellon Day Opportunities to provide volunteering and work opportunities for adults with learning difficulties