


Andrew Batchelor
2 days ago1 min read


Dundee is home to a remarkable collection of institutions, attractions, programmes and community assets that help shape the city’s identity.
From world-class research and education to cultural venues, visitor attractions, environmental spaces and community initiatives, these organisations contribute to the wellbeing, economy and future of Dundee every single day.
Recent financial challenges at the University of Dundee have placed a number of these assets under uncertainty, including Dundee Botanic Garden, the Cooper Gallery and a range of academic programmes. The impact of these decisions extends far beyond campus boundaries and affects communities, visitors, students, families and organisations across the city.
Keep Dundee Growing is a Dundee Culture campaign dedicated to raising awareness of these challenges while exploring opportunities for the future.
The initiative will bring together news, public reaction, expert insights, stakeholder discussions and potential solutions relating to assets and programmes affected by ongoing changes at the University of Dundee.
Importantly, this is not about assigning blame or pursuing predetermined outcomes. Instead, it is about ensuring that every possible option is explored and that informed conversations take place around the future of institutions that matter to the city.
Throughout the campaign, Dundee Culture will highlight the stories behind these places and programmes, showcase the people whose lives have been impacted by them, and provide a platform for constructive discussions about what comes next.
Potential areas of focus may include charitable trust models, independent operators, social enterprises, community asset transfers, strategic partnerships and other forms of community-led stewardship where appropriate.
The campaign will also celebrate successes. Where solutions are found, partnerships are formed or futures are secured, Keep Dundee Growing will highlight and support those positive developments.
Dundee has overcome challenges before. By bringing together communities, organisations and decision-makers, this initiative aims to help ensure that the institutions which contribute so much to the city continue to inspire, educate and benefit future generations.
Because Dundee’s future is worth investing in.
This petition calls for the future of Dundee Botanic Garden and its café to be secured following plans for closure announced by the University of Dundee. Supporters describe the garden as a vital environmental, educational and community asset, highlighting its importance to generations of visitors and its role as one of the city's most peaceful and treasured spaces.
This petition seeks to protect Cooper Gallery, one of Scotland's leading contemporary art venues. Campaigners argue that the gallery plays a significant role in Dundee's cultural life, bringing internationally recognised exhibitions, artists and critical discussions to the city while engaging audiences locally, nationally and internationally.
This petition aims to reverse proposals to close the Philosophy Programme at the University of Dundee. Students, graduates and supporters argue that the programme makes a valuable contribution to academic life, critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning, while helping shape future generations of philosophers, researchers and professionals.