Dundee Culture launches effort to explore future options for Botanic Garden after closure threat

Dundee Culture founder Andrew Batchelor played a key role in saving Mills Observatory

Following news that Dundee Botanic Garden is set to close, Dundee Culture has begun contacting organisations across Scotland to seek advice, guidance and explore whether any alternative options may exist for the future of the attraction.

The move comes after widespread public reaction to the news, with many expressing concern about the potential loss of one of Dundee’s most important environmental and educational assets.

Dundee Culture founder Andrew Batchelor has contacted a range of organisations with experience in heritage management, charitable trusts, visitor attractions, community ownership and botanical gardens.

The discussions are not focused on any single solution but are instead aimed at understanding what options may potentially exist, including charitable trusts, independent operators, social enterprises, community asset transfers and other forms of community-led stewardship.

Speaking about the decision to reach out, Andrew said:

“I don’t claim to have the answers, and I appreciate there may be significant financial and practical challenges involved. However, I believe Dundee Botanic Garden is far too important to lose without exploring every possible avenue first.”

Andrew added: “When Mills Observatory faced an uncertain future, Dundee Culture helped raise awareness and encourage people through the doors. While every situation is different, I believe it’s worth having conversations and asking questions before assuming there are no options available.”

At this stage, it remains unclear what opportunities may exist for the future of the Botanic Garden.

However, the response from both the public and local organisations demonstrates the strength of feeling surrounding the attraction and the desire to see solutions explored wherever possible.

Dundee Culture will continue to share updates as discussions develop.