A new £36 million Blairgowrie Recreation Centre is set to open early next year, offering Scotland’s first ultra-low energy swimming pool and recreation facilities. Perth and Kinross councillors have confirmed that the replacement centre is on track to open to the public in early 2025, slightly ahead of the initial schedule in December 2024. This adjustment is made to ensure there is no disruption to Blairgowrie High School’s prelim timetable, as the centre plays a crucial role in hosting exams for the school.
The new recreation centre has been constructed alongside the existing facility, which will only be demolished once the new centre is operational. The Perth and Kinross Council’s Finance and Resources Committee received an update on the project’s progress, acknowledging it as a significant capital venture for the local authority. Stephen Crawford, PKC’s head of Property Services, expressed confidence that the centre will be open to the public in early 2025, pending a smooth transition from the old facility.
Local councillors Tom McEwan and Caroline Shiers commended the development team for their work on the Passivhaus project, which adopts an innovative energy-efficient design. The new two-storey building will feature a 25m swimming pool, sports halls, fitness suite, dance studio, changing facilities, offices, and more. It will cater to both the local community and Blairgowrie High School, providing modern amenities for recreational and educational purposes.
The Blairgowrie Recreation Centre’s upcoming opening marks a significant milestone in enhancing leisure and sports facilities in the region. With its state-of-the-art design and energy-efficient features, the centre is poised to become a hub for community activities and school events, contributing to the overall well-being of residents in Blairgowrie and beyond.