Helensburgh Leisure Centre roof damaged in Storm Eowyn remains 'fragile'

Helensburgh Leisure Centre’s roof has been described as “fragile”, while “a number of options for consideration” will be put before councillors.

The £22m waterfront leisure centre and swimming pool, which only opened in 2022, sustained “extensive wind and rainwater damage” during the strong winds, with debris left strewn across the streets.

A report by Argyll and Bute Council’s policy lead for finance and commercial services has detailed the effects of Storm Eowyn across the area.

Councillor Ross Moreland (Liberal Democrat, Dunoon) said that work was ongoing to identify a solution at the leisure centre after the storm on January 24.

The details are given in a report which will go before the full council at its meeting on Thursday, April 24.

Councillor Moreland said: “Following the devastating effects of Storm Eowyn on January 24, property services have been working hard to assist with the recovery work across the council estate, which saw over 100 incidents logged with the team.

“The majority of incidents related to roof damage, broken windows, water ingress, electrical issues and fallen debris, but there was notable damage to a number of buildings including Park Primary School, Glencruitten Hostel, Struan Lodge and Helensburgh Leisure Centre (HLC).

“With regard to HLC, the building has sustained extensive wind and rainwater damage. It has a fragile roof and to ensure public safety a cordon has been put in place around it.

“Works have been undertaken since then to make the building wind and water tight through the installation of waterproof membrane and a rainwater capture system.

“Survey work is also underway and the council is working with its insurer to inform the development of a strategy for a permanent design solution.

“Following this work a report will be prepared for council setting out a number of options for consideration. Live Argyll have put in place alternative arrangements to provide temporary gym facilities at Helensburgh Library (available since February 19) with the library re-locating to Hermitage Park Pavilion.

“I would like to thank all the staff at Live Argyll for their hard work and quick response in restarting the gym facilities as quickly as possible.”

Planning permission was recently awarded for the gym and library to remain in their current premises for up to three years. However, no date has been identified for when the leisure centre could reopen.