The University of Dundee in Scotland has announced the news that the Dundee Botanic Garden is set to close as part of ongoing decisions linked to financial challenges.
The botanical gardens, home to a diverse collection of plants, trees and horticultural displays from around the world, has welcomed visitors for decades.
Sat on Riverside Drive, the garden has served as a place for education, conservation, research and relation for residents and visitors alike.
The news has already swept up discussions. Lewis Normand, plantsman and sales manager at Bernhards Nurseries says he is “disgusted that the University of Dundee is considering this.” He adds:
“I’m, sadly, not surprised, as I could see this was likely last year when I wrote to the University Court to warn against it. I am currently writing to members of the Scottish Parliament, Scottish MPs and some Scottish Government ministers with a requests for support in protecting the Botanic Gardens.”
Former curator of the gardens, from 2019 – 2025, Kevin Frediani also expresses his opinion:
“Like many botanic gardens, its value is layered: as a living scientific collection, a platform for education, and a place where people connect meaningfully with nature.
“As institutions across higher education and heritage navigate financial pressures, this situation underscores the need for clearer sector advocacy – articulating the full economic, social and environmental value of gardens like Dundee.”
Frediani also offers his thoughts to colleagues and the community connected to the garden.
Many people are hoping that alternative solutions can be explored to allow the garden to continue operating. Normand urges people to sign a petition to save the botanic gardens.
There must be a way forwards found to maintain the Gardens moving forwards. I think it would be apposite through FOI requests or otherwise, for the University to give a full cost and income accounts of the gardens so meaningful alternative plans can be informed and drawn up in whatever manner best suits the ongoing provision of the gardens, out of the institutions hands.