THE build of a new adventure centre by the Forth and Clyde Canal in East Dunbartonshire has been completed.
SCAPE Scotland handled the delivery on the project on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council, with Morgan Sindall Construction being the main contractor and atkinsRéalis providing cost management and principal designer services.
Twechar Outdoor Pursuits Centre has been created on a previously derelict site beside the Forth and Clyde Canal. When it is up and running, it will be a base for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, cycling, and more.
The facility features storage space for kayaks and canoes; a wetsuit drying area; large meeting/seminar room; a reception; accessible toilets, showers, and changing areas; a food prep area; outdoor seating; car parking; solar panels on the roof; and an access road.
East Dunbartonshire Council secured significant external support for the facility – including funding from the Scottish Government, sportscotland and the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund.
The local authority has been working closely with Twechar Community Action (TCA), which manages Twechar Healthy Living & Enterprise Centre and has been central to the transformation of Twechar over two decades.
A marketing exercise was undertaken during the summer of 2021 which concluded with TCA being identified as the proposed tenant. Work is now taking place to finalise the lease, after which the centre will be equipped and staff/volunteer training will take place. Look out for future updates on when the facility will be open to the public.
Councillor Gordan Low, leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, said, “Well done to everyone who worked so hard to complete construction on the new centre. This is a major step towards the facility being made available to people of all ages and abilities in East Dunbartonshire – offering a range of outdoor activities and opportunities, with community involvement at its heart.”
Lillian McDowall, Business Development Manager – SCAPE Scotland, added, “Our goal is to actively support the public sector in the delivery of projects that truly enrich and support local communities, so we’re proud to have been part of this project, which will bring value to the community and lasting benefits to residents for years to come.
“We have developed a strong, collaborative relationship with the Council over a number of years through their use of our Construction and Consultancy Frameworks.”
Stuart Parker, MD of Morgan Sindall Construction in Scotland, commented, “It’s been great to complete construction works on Twechar Outdoor Pursuits Centre – it’s a fantastic space and when it’s open to the public this summer, we’re hopeful it will play a key part in improving the health and wellbeing of people in East Dunbartonshire.
“The centre has brought fresh life to a previously derelict site and will encourage people to get fit and active. It was also a privilege to work within the community while it was being built, with our team engaging with Twechar Community Action and Lenzie Academy throughout.”
Claire Nelson, regional director – project management for AtkinsRéalis, said, “I am incredibly proud of our team’s accomplishments in delivering the centre. This project not only fosters regeneration in the area, but also embodies the principles of social inclusion, adaptability and educational training.
“It has been a pleasure to work on such a remarkable initiative and to continue our partnership with East Dunbartonshire Council and SCAPE Scotland.”
