BBC Scotland

Spent part of today at the official opening of the new BBC Scotland HQ at Pacific Quay today

From the outside it looks like just another office block, steel and glass blending in well with the Science Centre and the SECC, nove but not particularly inspiring.  Indeed, it was described as “the box the Armadillo came in”.  Inside, it is amazing  See pics here.  The architecture, the technology and the creativity of this place are astounding.

Gathered in the foyer, admiring (or reminiscing over) the technology of yesteryear was an opportunity to meet a few people and have a cuppa, before the trek up the polished red sandstone staircases to the plaque and the speeches.  Seated with Kelvin Holdsworth, provost of our cathedral, we had a small competition - guess the guest of honour.  ‘Twas kelvin that won as  Gordon Brown appeared.   The speeches were not bad, and Gordon Brown firmly laid his credentials as a local lad taking delight in the regeneration of Clydeside & the Govan area.    Much more inspiring and charismatic in person than appearing on TV (not difficult really….), he praised the work of the BBC in Scotland and throughout the world, and promised it a good future, despite having worked for the opposition and new neighbour STV during his brief career as a journalist.

Lunch took place in studio space - huge, yet elegant. Clergy, civic dignitaries, officials from unpteen organisations, champers and good chatter.  A pleasant way to spend the day.