Major Aberdeen projects put in doubt by funding cuts

A regeneration of Duthie Gardens may have to be delayed

Major projects in Aberdeen such as a new Olympic-sized swimming pool may be delayed because of a £40m cut to its capital budget.

A third River Don crossing and the regeneration of Duthie Gardens may also have to be shelved.

The council needs to save £120m from its budget over the next five years.

Millions of pounds of funding has already been committed for the 50-metre pool at the site of the former Linksfield Academy.

It is hoped that funding will not be lost if the council does not come up with its expected share.

Aberdeen University and Sportscotland said it was committed to the project, even if the council did not contribute as expected.

A final decision is due to be made by councillors at a budget meeting on 10 February.

George Yule, chairman of Aberdeen Sports Village, next to the planned pool project, told BBC Scotland: "It's disappointing in as much as the recommendation has come out in public at this time.

"It does not at this time jeopardise the pool project, the other partners remain committed.

"There are some challenges in front of us. We understand the harsh realities just now."

But he added: "We are not by any means throwing in the towel."