THE Allander Leisure Centre in Bearsden has been officially opened by East Dunbartonshire provost Gillian Renwick.
The main building of the facility was completed and opened in March last year, with the old centre demolished and the new sports dome built in its place at the end of 2023. Since the first phase was complete, more than 460,000 visits have been made – around 12,000 per week on average.
Built by McLaughlin & Harvey, Holmes Miller was behind the design with support from Doig+Smith, Brown + Wallace, and planning consultancy Stantec. The facility boasts a 25m eight-lane swimming pool and 20m training pool with a movable floor, as well as hydrotherapy pool for those with learning difficulties, mobility issues, and babies.
A sauna and steam room also features, alongside a gym and high and low intensity studios, a spin room, a eight-court games hall, two squash courts, two indoor football pitches and a tennis court. The sports dome also incorporates a support facility for adults with learning disabilities.
Provost Gillian Renwick said, “I am absolutely delighted to officially open the new Allander Leisure Centre, which is already proving popular with people of all ages.
“This is the culmination of years of hard work, hopes, discussions, and planning – involving patrons, partners, residents, community groups, councillors and officers. Thanks to everyone who helped along the way.
“This facility represents a significant capital investment by the council, which will benefit generations of people from Bearsden and beyond – offering them the chance to enjoy first-class sporting and leisure opportunities at an affordable price. I’m pleased to say the project also includes services and support for adults with learning disabilities.”