Investigations into a potential site for a new community sports centre in Stranraer are ongoing, Dumfries and Galloway Council has confirmed.

The new Wigtownshire Community Sports Centre would include activities such as an indoor bowling facility, ten-pin bowling alleys, laser quest, a multi-purpose function room and a café.

A number of sites have already been suggested for the centre, such as the East Pier and Port Rodie Frontage; while Wigtown Area Committee Councillors have put forward two sites – an area of land adjacent to Agnew Park Pavilion, and the former Marine Lake area.


Agnew Park is already earmarked as part of a wider waterfront regeneration in the town, with the local authority having set aside £410,000 to upgrade the pavilion and provide new play and events equipment.

Following a meeting of the Council's Economy, Environment and Infrastructure committee on Tuesday (9 September), it was agreed that officers should investigate the Agnew Park option to see if the sports centre could be accommodated with the planned improvements.

Councillor Colin Smyth, chairman of the committee, said: "Councillors agreed that such a development would be positive for the area. As a result it was agreed we will continue to support this initiative and work closely with the sports centre committee and the local community to find a suitable site, with a range of possible options being investigated.

"Clearly, the success of such a project will require a robust business plan and funding, but one way the Council can help is through helping find an appropriate location."

(JP/IT)