| Administrative History | The civic trust movement can be traced back to 1957 and the foundation of the Civic Trust in England. This was followed in 1962 by the foundation of the Scottish Civic Trust. Both organisations were expressly concerned with fostering a greater awareness of the challenges of town planning and with the 'protection' of town centres.
Aberdeen Civic Society was founded in 1968, at the instigation of Charles Skene and the Junior Chamber of Commerce, following concerns over rapid planning developments in Aberdeen city centre and public controversy regarding proposals to demolish a number of prominent buildings.
The aims of the Society have remained constant: to stimulate public interest in and care for the beauty, history and character of Aberdeen and its surroundings; to encourage the preservation, development and improvement of public amenity and historic interest; and to encourage high standards of architectural planning. The Society pursues these aims by means of meetings, exhibitions, lectures, publications, conferences and publicity.
An important feature of the Society's work is its annual Awards and Commendations Scheme (inaugurated in 1972), which draws attention to new projects, restorations or preservations which, in the Society's opinion, enliven and enhance the environment. The Society also reviews and comments regularly on planning applications submitted to the City Council and participates in public inquiries concerning major schemes of development.
The Executive Committee meets on a monthly basis, the principal business being consideration of the report of the Planning Sub-Committee and to take action where deemed appropriate. The Awards Committee meets regularly during the first six months of the year to consider nominations for the Awards and Commendations Scheme. Throughout the winter season, a programme of public lectures is held, and in the summer and autumn the Society sponsors two outings. |