Auchinleck Academy’s newly refurbished PE complex was officially opened last week, by a pupil.

Before a large audience of invited guests, third year pupil Rosie Wynne, 14, Scottish Schools Swimming Champion, cut the ribbon at the side of the pool and declared the new facility open.

Head Teacher Colin MacLean said: “The Parent Council lobbied very strongly for an upgrade to the PE complex in 2009 and enlisted the support of Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning and Graham Short, Director of Educational and Social Services. It was agreed to set aside funding in the region of £700,000 to extensively overhaul the complex.”

Development work undertaken mid May – November 2010 included refurbishment of the swimming pool, upgrade of dressing rooms, re-design of the foyer area, creation of disabled changing areas, toilets and staff bases. New flooring and wall coverings were provided throughout and the heating system was upgraded.

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Welcoming guests, Graham Short said: “This was a project specifically developed to meet local needs. All concerned deserve to be commended in promoting ‘ownership’ of the development. The complex is a community facility and we hope it will be used extensively in the evenings by local residents.”

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “Upgrading is not the best word to describe what is virtually a new facility, with superb sporting accommodation for young people.

“Auchinleck Academy has a strong tradition of achieving excellence in many branches of sport. This recent investment represents a leap of faith in our young people and will without doubt help produce many outstanding sportsmen and women in years to come.”

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning added: “I am delighted with this excellent state-of-the-art PE facility, which is the result of discussion, joint planning and working with parents, the school management team, Council officers and builders.

“The superb pool and other facilities will help not only Rosie Wynne in her endeavours, but also all the other budding young athletes of the future in Auchinleck Academy.”

(GK/KMcA)