CONSTRUCTION work has started on a new £6.7 million water sports hub in Stranraer.
A groundbreaking ceremony marked the moment, led by members of Stranraer Water Sports Association’s (SWSA) Kids Club and Young Instructor programme. The project aims to transform the town’s waterfront and establish Stranraer as a major water sports destination.
The development, which will be built by Clark Contracts, has been designed by architect John Renshaw and will be constructed to Passivhaus specification.
The hub will have changing and showering facilities, class and meeting rooms, café and kitchen facilities, offices, and open public spaces. The project is being delivered in partnership with John Renshaw Architects, Cundall, Hardies, and Luths Services, and the facility is expected to open in summer 2026.
John Fenwick, chairman of Stranraer Water Sports Association, said, “After years of planning and hard work, and generous support from our funders, it’s wonderful to see construction finally beginning on our new Water Sports Hub. I’m especially pleased that young people from our community have helped mark the occasion.
“This facility will transform what we can offer as an association, creating opportunities for skills development, employment and establishing Stranraer as a premier destination for water sports events and training. It’s a major step forward in the regeneration of our town.”
Michael Scanlan, director at Clark Contracts, added, “We are delighted to be working with Stranraer Water Sports Association on this exciting project. It is great to see continued development in Stranraer and we are looking forward to continuing to work in the area and providing these high-quality facilities for the local community.”
The facility will overlook Loch Ryan, which offers natural advantages for water sports and coastal activities. The potential for Stranraer to become a major water sports destination was identified in the SkiffieWorlds 2019 economic impact report. Following a feasibility study and community consultation process, the vision for the Water Sports Hub took shape and a full business case was developed in collaboration with Dumfries and Galloway Council.
In 2023, the project was awarded Levelling Up Funding. South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) has provided £720,000 towards the project, which is also supported by the Holywood Trust. sportscotland provided £100,000 towards the project from its Sport Facilities Fund.
