The city of Aberdeen is undergoing an arts renaissance that spans from new productions of classic shows to the construction of a £13 million arts centre, it has been claimed.

According to Scotland on Sunday, this is a fruitful period for arts in the city, despite, or perhaps because of the fact that many people have been driven to the streets in protests over £27 million cuts in council spending.

It is hoped that the construction of the new centre, which is due to open in spring 2011, could attract new Aberdeen hotel guests and other tourists. The centre for contemporary arts is to be built in Union Terrace Gardens.

Duncan Hendry, chief executive of Aberdeen Performing Art (APA), told the newspaper: "It's important that we reflect the culture of the area and that's been a weakness over the years. That's why this development is hugely exciting for us and for Aberdeen."

Meanwhile, Aberdeen City Council recently announced new plans to merge schools in the area into larger units. It said that doing so would enable it to spend more money educating pupils instead of maintaining old school buildings.

Book your stay at the Copthorne Hotel Aberdeen