Excitement as first customers welcomed to the new Allander Leisure Centre

SWIMMERS, cyclists and fitness enthusiasts are among those flocking to the new Allander Leisure Centre, which opened its doors to the public for the first time recently.

The initial phase of the project is now complete – part of a £42.5million investment by East Dunbartonshire Council – which also includes a support centre for adults with learning disabilities.

The overall Allander – which involves the construction of a new ‘Sports Dome’, offering two football pitches and a tennis court – is expected to be completed by the autumn, when an official opening will be held.

It currently offers: n A 25-metre, eight-lane swimming pool and 20m training pool with movable floor. n Sauna and steam vitality room. n Gym and high and low intensity studios. n State-of-the-art spin room. n Eight-court games hall. n Two squash courts. n Wet and dry changing facilities. n Café.

There is also a hydrotherapy pool for use by people with learning disabilities, families with young babies and people with mobility issues.

The demolition process is underway at the old Allander, which is next door, with restricted parking in the meantime.

The Council has managed to secure additional parking nearby, which will be signposted, until the entire project is completed.

In addition, there is a new support facility for adults with learning disabilities - replacing Kelvinbank Resource Centre in Kirkintilloch. That will include: n Flexible meeting rooms, quiet spaces and office. n Dementia, rebound, sensory and physiotherapy treatment rooms. n Arts and crafts, dance and music rooms. n Changing rooms. n Kitchen facilities.

The Council has been working closely with partners including East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust and East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership.

Councillor Gordan Low, leader of the Council, added, “The new leisure centre gives people the chance to have fun, get fit and improve their health – both physically and mentally.

“I’m pleased the project also includes services and facilities for adults with learning disabilities. This is a great facility which will benefit people across East Dunbartonshire.” McLaughlin and Harvey is the main contractor and architectural design is by Holmes Miller, with support from Doig+Smith, Brown + Wallace and planning consultancy Barton Willmore.