30 September 2004
Geddes helps forge new links with Montpellier
In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the birth of "the father of town planning", Sir Patrick
Geddes, the University of Dundee and the French town of Montpellier, where Geddes founded the Scots
College, are forging new links. Tomorrow Sir Alan Langlands, University of Dundee Principal and
Vice-Chancellor will be welcomed in Montpellier to celebrate the completion of a restoration project of
the Geddes Gardens at the Scots College, Montpellier, Southern France.
Geddes, spent nearly 30 years as Professor of Botany at University College Dundee from 1888. During this
time he laid out gardens within the University’s grounds, before embarking on his long dreamed project of
founding Scots College and gardens in Montpellier in 1924. As a lecturer he had a reputation as an
inspirational and sometimes maddening teacher who often spurned lecture theatre and curriculum, taking
his students to learn, literally, in the field - or the gardens.
Geddes hoped to revive the tradition of academic exchange between Scotland and France and many students
from abroad chose to pursue their learning in Geddes’ building surrounded by his remarkable gardens.
The unveiling of the project to restore four sections of the Scots College gardens, as originally laid
out by Geddes, marks the centenary of the Entente Cordiale that ended a history overshadowed by conflict
and rivalry to a sustained era of alliance. In timely fashion the completion of the gardens also
celebrates 700 years of the Auld Alliance between Scotland and France.
The Association France-Eccosse, in collaboration with the Rectorat de l'Academie de Montpellier and the
Scottish Executive organised the restoration project that furthers the important Geddes link between the
University of Dundee and Montpellier.
The University of Dundee is drawing upon its Geddes connection with Montpellier to explore academic links
with the University Paul Valery, Montpellier during Sir Alan’s visit, including the possibility of
student exchange programmes as well as research links with Dundee University’s Geddes Institute of town
and regional planning.
Sir Alan Langlands said, "It is a great step forward on the 150th anniversary of Geddes birth to restore
and re-energise the Geddes links between Montpellier and the University of Dundee. This is not only the
beginning of a flourishing garden but also, we hope a flourishing relationship."
By Angela Durcan, Press Officer 01382 344910, out of hours: 07968298585, a.durcan@dundee.ac.uk | 
