THE developers behind Helensburgh’s new waterfront leisure centre say “tremendous progress” has been made in creating the “world class facility”.
Heron Bros have hailed a number of key milestones reached recently, including the completion of the flood defences, and the landmark building has reached its highest point as the £22m project takes shape.
The Northern Irish civil engineering firm broke ground on site last autumn and passers-by can now see the outline of the final structure as phase one of the steel is complete, while the roof installation is expected to begin later this month.
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Work on the pools is also said to be progressing well with the main floors and walls also recently becoming visible to local residents.
The new centre is estimated to be open in summer 2022.
Site manager Chris Taylor said: “Construction continues to make tremendous progress only weeks into 2021.
“We are very proud to be working closely with Argyll and Bute Council and the integrated project team to deliver the Helensburgh community with a high-quality swimming pool and leisure facility.”
The waterfront development achieved a rating of excellent in a recent audit conducted by the Considerate Constructors Scheme, a not-for-profit, independent organisation founded to raise standards in the construction industry.
Construction sites, companies and suppliers voluntarily register with the scheme and agree to abide by the code of considerate practice, designed to encourage best practice beyond statutory requirements.
A Heron Bros spokesperson said: “Heron Bros have delivered landmark projects across Scotland for over 20 years and are delighted to be adding this new world class facility at Helensburgh to their leisure and stadia portfolio.
“The company is committed to maximising the positive impact we can have during our time on site, and has already donated £3,000 to six local charities including RDA Helensburgh, Fun First, Cornerstone, Mary’s Meals, Shelterbox and the Helensburgh Festive Lighting Charitable Trust.
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“We are committed to working with stakeholders to ensure that we operate in a way that complies with the construction leadership council’s site operating procedures and public health guidance.
“This ensures that all site personnel continue to work safely whilst protecting all of you, your family, and the local Helensburgh community.”
The company was the main works contractor on the project to build a new Kilpatrick School in Clydebank for West Dunbartonshire Council and the Vale of Leven Business Park in Dumbarton, and has also built a new primary school and nursery, and a faith schools joint campus, in Newton Mearns near Glasgow.
Last month Argyll and Bute Council was awarded £100,000 towards the project from sportscotland. The funding will be used to support existing plans including adding a movable floor to the studio pool which will be ideal for beginner swimming lessons and providing more inclusive access.
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