A historic Dundee church gate was reopened after more than 30 years to pave the way for a haven of tranquility in the city centre.
St Andrew’s Parish Church on Cowgate is to create the Wyvern and Secret Gardens on the west and north of the sacred site.
Unlike the award-winning greenery sweeping down from the front of the church to King Street, the areas to the north and west of the church have grown wild over many years.
An ambitious plan has been developed to transform the site into a haven of tranquility and creativity in the heart of the city.
For more than a year an enthusiastic group of church members have been planning the layout of the L-shaped space with landscape architect James Gordon.
A key feature of the new gardens was celebrated yesterday with the opening of the wrought iron gate to the west of the church, which has been closed since the Wellgate Centre was built.
Senior church members remember going up the steps leading from what is now Kirk Lane, and entering the church via this gate. Memories were evoked with its reopening after more than 30 years, when senior elder George Deuchars, 86, cut a ribbon.
Church minister the Rev Janet Foggie, said: “We are really excited about creating two new garden areas, which the congregation voted to call the Wyvern and Secret Gardens. The new gardens will be for the enjoyment not only of members of the congregation, but also those who use the church halls.”
She continued: “We are looking for volunteers who have gardening skills to come and help us create a beautiful space.”
Plans for the gardens include a seating area, raised beds, a herb garden and shrubs and plants which will encourage wildlife.
It is also hoped that some vegetables will be grown with the help of the young people from the Sunday schools and family project.
The gate reopening at the 239-year-old church was witnessed by the congregation, members of the nine incorporated trades and rotarians.