Selkirk’s leisure plan
A community group fighting to secure the future of Selkirk Leisure Centre and Caravan Park has shared an update on its progress as it continues efforts to protect the much-valued facilities.
The Victoria Park Action Group (VPAG), which was formed in February, has been meeting regularly and working alongside Scottish Borders Council (SBC) and Live Borders to gain a clearer understanding of the challenges facing the site and the opportunities for its future.
The group has been exploring the condition of the leisure centre building and the operation of the swimming pool, while developing a vision for how the facilities could be sustained for the benefit of the community.
VPAG has now shared its proposals with senior representatives from SBC and Live Borders and is working with Borders Community Action to explore potential funding for a feasibility study into the long-term options for the site.
A key next step will be commissioning an independent survey of the building and its plant. The survey will provide detailed information on the condition of the facilities, their expected lifespan and the likely costs of repairs, maintenance and possible replacement.
Alongside this work, the group is reviewing the three main elements that support the site’s future viability – the swimming pool, gym and caravan park – and considering how they could work together within a sustainable business model.
A spokesperson for VPAG said the group recognises that securing the long-term future of the centre will take time, but remains committed to working constructively with partners to develop an evidence-based plan.
The group also thanked everyone who has supported its work so far and encouraged continued use of the pool, gym and other services, highlighting that strong community engagement will be vital in demonstrating the importance of the facilities.
As part of its ongoing campaign to raise awareness, VPAG is now seeking a volunteer with marketing and communications experience to help promote its work and support wider community engagement. Anyone interested is asked to contact group secretary Joyce Wright by emailing [email protected].