The team behind London's Olympic Park has been chosen to redesign Union Terrace Gardens in Aberdeen.

LDA Design will draw up proposals to revamp the park as part of the council's multi-million city masterplan.

A revamped Union Terrace Gardens could include performance spaces, restaurants and artist's studios - features which were included in Peacock Visual Arts' original design for the gardens in 2010.

Councillors narrowly rejected Sir Ian Wood's controversial £140m plan for the park in 2012.

Council leader Jenny Laing said: "We are delighted to announce that LDA Design has been chosen as the consultant to draw up detailed proposals for Union Terrace Gardens.

"LDA Design has a world-class reputation as the team behind high quality, iconic projects that demonstrate both innovation and respect for heritage.

"LDA Design faced fierce competition from nearly a dozen leading firms during a rigorous selection procedure for Union Terrace Gardens - evidence of a desire from the country's leading design practitioners to be part of the Aberdeen City Centre Masterplan programme.

"In producing and honing detailed drawings for Union Terrace Gardens, LDA Design will continue the process of engaging with the public and key stakeholders. Together we can secure their position as the city centre's green jewel."

LDA had already produced one potential vision of a redesigned Union Terrace Gardens but says it is not indicative of its plans for the park.