Changes in Aberdeen

From all estimates, we are still in the midst of an economic downturn, if not full out recession. Admittedly, most point to factors which seem to show that things are turning a corner. Regardless of economics, Aberdeen doesn't seem to be all that concerned with things like statistics, downturns or, well, money. If you are going to go through an economic crisis, why not just build your brains out?

For all of those who have left Aberdeen, we thought we would update you on some of the new and almost new features of Aberdeen (more posts to come). First, and right next door to our flat, is the new sports village. This place is massive. It was a joint venture between the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen city council and Sports Scotland, and is, I believe, the largest sports complex in the North East of the country. There is a full indoor football pitch, an indoor track, an outdoor track, a weight room and a three basketball court sized gym. Not bad!



The University seems to be building like it's going out of style, so right on the heels of their new gym facility, they have started construction on their new 9 story library (not the building you see here!) - for a virtual tour click here. It, of course, will be done right when I leave!



This wooden fence you see used to be the Mercedes dealer on King Street, that has recently been torn down to make way for new flats. I was hoping for a new and used theology bookstore, but you can't have everything right?



What is certainly the most expensive endeavor of the city council is the total, and I mean total, renovation of Marischal's college. This monument is massive, and they are basically leaving in tact the facade and gutting everything else. This is the building, I have heard, that Hitler wanted for his Britain headquarters (and why not).



And while all these are exciting, by far the most exciting is that our favorite coffee shop has opened their second shop on Aberdeen's campus (right on High Street). Now the university has a real coffee shop, with real food. I don't know what to do with myself. Kelli and I made sure we went over this morning for their "soft opening" and tried to be some of their first customers. Very exciting day.



Well, there will be more changes to post soon no doubt. If the downturn gets any worse, we'll be expanding the airport, building parks, and doubling our shopping space...