ScotRail is delighted at receiving a top award at the National Railway Heritage Awards for the restoration of Aberdeen station. The project was recognised for its high-quality upkeep and enhancement of the environment for the busy city station and for maintaining its historic balance with the requirements of a modern-day station.

The Rail operator has worked hand in hand with the Railway Heritage Trust in order to carefully restore the North Corner Pavillion Building which is a significant A-listed building which connects back to the days of steam locomotives which had fallen into disrepair.

The project has taken a sympathetic approach so as to keep the appearance of the pavilion as close as possible to that of the original structure. Pre-existing materials have been recycled within the project such as the solid granite treads in the Guild Street entrance which were removed and altered to become part of the new stairs.

The station was originally built in 1867, however, the station we know today actually saw construction begin in 1913 following the First World War and it is thought that both the North and South pavilions were put in place in approximately 1920.

Aberdeen station’s recent redevelopment has now been completed and saw an official opening ceremony with Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth on the 5th of December.

The National Railway Heritage Awards have been running each year since 1979 and in 2004 were given granted charitable status. The awards aim to recognise the careful restoration of buildings, structures and signalling installations which support the UK’s historic railway and tram heritage.

Kirsty Devlin, ScotRail Head of Projects & PMO, said: “I’m delighted that Aberdeen station’s North Corner Pavilion restoration has been recognised at the National Railway Heritage Awards 2022.

“This project presented a wonderful opportunity to restore an important building, which is part of the heritage of Aberdeen, for future generations.

“Throughout the project, we worked in close partnership with the Railway Heritage Trust, our architects, Austin-Smith:Lord, our contractors, Morrison Construction, the city council, and Network Rail to make sure the North Corner Pavilion can be enjoyed for many more years to come.”