Big investment into pool's future

The massive investment will enable the creation of a new multi-use studio, enlarged fitness suite, new reception and seating area, modern, accessible wet-side changing rooms, toilet facilities and a new sauna.

Elements of the mechanical plant in the building (heating/ventilation) will also be upgraded.

The total cost for the project will be £552,422 and the centre will be closed from Thursday, May 5, until September to enable the works to take place.

Ewan Jackson, chief executive at Borders Sport and Leisure, said: “We are committed to encouraging people of all ages across the Borders to become more active and to providing the best facilities we can for them to enjoy.

“The changes planned for Selkirk will transform this leisure centre and we hope that its current users can bear with us while all of the necessary work takes place.”

To assist customers during the refurbishment period, Borders Sport and Leisure will be suspending charges for all members of Selkirk Leisure Centre throughout the closure period and offering them access to other Borders Sport and Leisure centres free of charge.

In addition, everyone on the Learn to Swim programme will be given the option of having their lessons transferred to either Galashiels or Teviotdale Leisure Centre, and will be able to enjoy free swimming at other Borders Sport and Leisure swimming pools with their members’ cards.

Mr Jackson continued: “There is no ideal time to undertake the improvements, however, as some of them are critical to prolonging the life of plant equipment we are going to begin the project as soon as practical.

“We would like to apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused by the closure, but we are confident that they will be pleased with end results.”

Councillor Vicky Davidson, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for Culture, Sport, Youth and Communities, said: “This is a very welcome investment in Selkirk Leisure Centre. It secures its future and puts to bed any residual fears about the facility. We realise there will be an inconvenience to the local community due to this closure.

“However, the improvements will result in a much improved Leisure Centre which users will benefit from for years to come.”

Louise Martin, chair of sportscotland, said: “We are delighted to invest over £170,000 into these substantial improvements at Selkirk Leisure Centre. At sportscotland we are working closely with our partners to build a world-class sporting system for all, and collaborations such as Borders Sport and Leisure are integral to the success of that ambition. This combined investment will provide more and better opportunities for the people of Selkirk and surrounding communities to take part in sport and physical activity in an excellent facility.”

Borders Sport and Leisure is a charitable trust and operates 15 different leisure facilities across the Borders, in addition to running sports and activity programmes within schools and the community.