Aden Country Park’s carers and sensory garden improvements complete

The carers and sensory garden within Aden Country Park has been restored thanks to more than £37,000 of Just Transition Participatory Budget funds and £2,000 from the Friends of Aden. 

Friends of Aden and Aberdeenshire Council worked in partnership to make the gardens more accessible. The collaboration replaced broken fencing and flower beds, introduced new plants, wildlife sculptures, and habitat improvements, and created a calming retreat for carers’ and residents’ mental health and wellbeing. 

Formed in 2012, Friends of Aden work alongside various council services and other community partners to preserve, protect, and enhance the facilities and environment of Mintlaw’s Aden Country Park.  

Sheila Dargie, Friends of Aden Chairperson, said: “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.” 

Councillor Dianne Beagrie, Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Buchan Area Committee, said: “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 carers and sensory garden improvement project included... 

Ground Works: Removal of old boundary fencing and replacement with new fencing. Installation of accessible ramp for wheelchair users, removal of broken concrete raised bed and recycling of materials to refurbish other two concrete beds, harling of two concrete planters, and installation of new planters and bench to sit on. 

Planting: Purchase and planting of a range of plants that stimulate the senses e.g. sight, smell, touch, and sound, which also help improve biodiversity and attract wildlife. 

Interpretation: The design and installation of signage and interpretive panels focusing on the Sensory and Carers Garden, its history, benefits, and restoration. 

Sensory enhancement: Installation of a series of native wildlife chainsaw sculptures along with the installation of wind chimes and a water feature. 

Aden’s carers’ garden was the first garden in the UK specifically designed and built for Carers. In the UK, three out of every five people may become an unpaid carer at some point in their life. The Carers’ Garden was built not only as a space for relaxation, but also for carers to meet and to give those who need care a chance to enjoy the garden.  

The Aden sensory garden offers therapeutic, educational, and recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. They stimulate the senses with textures, scents, sounds, and sights that can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional and sensory processing. These gardens serve as hands-on learning environments—promoting skill development and even physical rehabilitation. 

The Friends of Aden officially marked the opening of the refurbished carers and sensory garden on Friday, 12 June 2026. The date was chosen to coincide with Carers Week, the annual UK‑wide campaign that raises awareness of unpaid carers, recognises their vital contributions, and helps connect them with essential support. 

Since launching in 2022, the Scottish Government’s Just Transition Participatory Budget Fund has allocated more than £4.5 million to more than 180 community led eco-friendly projects across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray. The fund is delivered locally on behalf of the Scottish Government by ACVO TSI, Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, tsiMORAY, Money for Moray, and NESCAN Hub.