SCOTLAND’S first Passivhaus leisure development has officially been opened in Blairgowrie.
Designed by Holmes Miller, the £36 million project was delivered by Hub East Central Scotland on behalf of Perth and Kinross Council with BAM Construction leading the build.
The new centre replaces Blairgowrie’s original 1980s facility. It is the first Scottish leisure centre to be designed to full Passivhaus standards, and only the second in the UK.
Fully constructed from Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glulam, the low-carbon building will reduce energy consumption by up to 80% compared to a typical leisure centre, Holmes Miller said. The firm also estimates that it will have the lowest operational energy use of any Passivhaus-certified leisure centre in the UK.
Located south of Blairgowrie High School, the centre will play a key part in the school’s curriculum, providing students with their own designated PE facilities. It also offers a range of amenities for the wider community, including a six-lane 25-metre competition standard swimming pool with a viewing gallery, a four-court sports hall, two-court gymnasium, dance studio, fitness suite and an external all-weather sports pitch.
The centre meets Sport Scotland, Sport England, and Accessible Sports Facilities guidance. Fully wheelchair-friendly, it includes two Changing Places toilets and fully accessible changing rooms to provide an inclusive environment for all.
Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the design. Exposed CLT and Glulam beams provide strong thermal and acoustic insulation for a comfortable, healthy indoor climate. Zoned heating, ventilation and air conditioning allow for temperature control and energy savings when spaces are not in use.
The Passivhaus swimming pool design ensures even temperatures, eliminates draughts and cold surfaces, and includes a ventilation system that adjusts humidity levels for the comfort of swimmers and spectators alike.
Yida Zhou, project architect at Holmes Miller, said, “This project marks a significant milestone not only for Perth and Kinross Council, but for Scotland. As the first of its kind in the country, it is a testament to what can be achieved when good design and sustainability are combined.
“With this being a landmark building in the area, we understood its cultural significance and wanted to design a space that would pay homage to the local community, enhance the experience and learning of students, and meet the council’s ambitious sustainability targets. We hope Blairgowrie Recreation Centre will inspire more leisure centres in Scotland to be designed with Passivhaus in mind, creating inclusive, sustainable spaces where communities can thrive.”
