HELENSBURGH’S new £22.3 million leisure centre is on track to open in 2022, Argyll and Bute Council has confirmed.
Heron Bros began work on the project a year ago, with the main building now being structurally complete, as well as the external Lomond stone blockwork and glazing installed, and work on new flood defences being ‘well underway’.
Once opened, the facility will give residents and visitors access to new swimming and studio pools, a gym and café with ‘stunning’ views over the Clyde – as well as pool pod access facilities to enable wheelchair users and anyone with mobility issues to independently access the pool, a moveable floor in the studio pool, and a changing places toilet.
Further to this, the build has created training and experience for those starting out their construction careers. Both the local authority and Heron Bros have offered a number of work placements and ongoing learning including: apprentice civil engineers and stonemasons; trainee quantity surveyors; civil engineering graduate places; and apprentice joiners, plumbers and electricians.
Cathal Heron, regional director of Heron Bros, commented, “Heron Bros is extremely pleased with the progress made to date as we mark such a key milestone for the project. The celebration represents a high point not only for the project build, but for the entire project team, who have worked so effectively together in making such impressive progress.”
Councillor Gary Mulvaney, policy lead of financial services and major projects at Argyll and Bute Council, added,“This development not only offers a first class facility for residents and visitors, it provides vital skills and training to the next generation, and support for the local economy now when it needs it. With ongoing Covid restrictions, it has taken a huge team effort from the council, Heron Bros and our internal and external design consultants to get us to this important milestone.
“It is remarkable to think of the progress to date considering the back office staff behind the Waterfront Development are working remotely to deliver the project. The progress achieved in the face of considerable challenge is a testament to the power of partnership and professionalism. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
