Disappointment ripples through Blairgowrie and the surrounding Perth and Kinross communities as the eagerly awaited opening of the new Blairgowrie Recreation Centre faces yet another setback. A second leak has been discovered in the facility’s swimming pool, further postponing the opening date. This follows a previous leak detected in January, which had already pushed the projected opening from late 2020 to spring 2025.
Perth and Kinross Council confirmed the new delay, emphasizing that contractors are diligently working to rectify the issue. The council reassured residents that while this is a frustrating situation, they will not bear any additional financial burden due to the leaks. Handover of the building will only occur once the council is fully satisfied that all aspects of the centre, including the pool, meet the required standards. This commitment aims to ensure the long-term quality and functionality of this significant community investment. Council Leader Calls for Review
In response to the recurring delays, Council Leader Grant Laing has requested a comprehensive review, overseen by Councillor Colin Stewart, Convener of the Scrutiny Committee. This review will investigate the underlying causes of the construction setbacks and aim to identify lessons learned for future projects within Perth and Kinross, potentially benefiting construction practices region-wide. The council’s proactive approach demonstrates their accountability to the public and their commitment to optimizing construction processes. BAM Construction Director Addresses Concerns
Paul Carle, Construction Director at BAM UK and Ireland, expressed his own disappointment regarding the delays. Acknowledging the intricate design of the pool and the involvement of specialized contractors, he explained the unforeseen technical challenges as the reason for the setbacks. Mr. Carle emphasized the importance of thorough testing and rectification of these issues prior to the public opening, reiterating their dedication to completing the necessary repairs as swiftly as possible. A Look Ahead
The £36 million Blairgowrie Recreation Centre is set to become a vital community hub, offering a wide range of leisure facilities, including a modern swimming pool, a spacious four-court sports hall, a well-equipped gymnasium, a dedicated fitness suite, a dance studio, and an outdoor artificial sports pitch. These state-of-the-art amenities are intended to encourage health and wellbeing, offering diverse recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities within Blairgowrie and its surrounding areas. Until the new recreation centre is ready, residents can continue to utilize the current 40-year-old facility at Blairgowrie High School, which remains open and operational.
The enhanced recreational opportunities this new centre will provide are expected to have a positive impact on the local area, making Blairgowrie an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit. The council’s commitment to resolving the current challenges and delivering a high-quality facility underscores their dedication to enhancing the lives of Perth and Kinross residents.
Perth and Kinross Council confirmed the new delay, emphasizing that contractors are diligently working to rectify the issue. The council reassured residents that while this is a frustrating situation, they will not bear any additional financial burden due to the leaks. Handover of the building will only occur once the council is fully satisfied that all aspects of the centre, including the pool, meet the required standards. This commitment aims to ensure the long-term quality and functionality of this significant community investment. Council Leader Calls for Review
In response to the recurring delays, Council Leader Grant Laing has requested a comprehensive review, overseen by Councillor Colin Stewart, Convener of the Scrutiny Committee. This review will investigate the underlying causes of the construction setbacks and aim to identify lessons learned for future projects within Perth and Kinross, potentially benefiting construction practices region-wide. The council’s proactive approach demonstrates their accountability to the public and their commitment to optimizing construction processes. BAM Construction Director Addresses Concerns
Paul Carle, Construction Director at BAM UK and Ireland, expressed his own disappointment regarding the delays. Acknowledging the intricate design of the pool and the involvement of specialized contractors, he explained the unforeseen technical challenges as the reason for the setbacks. Mr. Carle emphasized the importance of thorough testing and rectification of these issues prior to the public opening, reiterating their dedication to completing the necessary repairs as swiftly as possible. A Look Ahead
The £36 million Blairgowrie Recreation Centre is set to become a vital community hub, offering a wide range of leisure facilities, including a modern swimming pool, a spacious four-court sports hall, a well-equipped gymnasium, a dedicated fitness suite, a dance studio, and an outdoor artificial sports pitch. These state-of-the-art amenities are intended to encourage health and wellbeing, offering diverse recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities within Blairgowrie and its surrounding areas. Until the new recreation centre is ready, residents can continue to utilize the current 40-year-old facility at Blairgowrie High School, which remains open and operational.
The enhanced recreational opportunities this new centre will provide are expected to have a positive impact on the local area, making Blairgowrie an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit. The council’s commitment to resolving the current challenges and delivering a high-quality facility underscores their dedication to enhancing the lives of Perth and Kinross residents.