A new leisure centre and swimming pool is to be developed in Helensburgh as part of a new £18 million project.

Argyll and Bute councillors approved plans for the Helensburgh Waterfront Development following a comprehensive pre-planning public consultation process.

The development will see a new leisure centre and swimming pool replace the existing facility in the town. In addition, associated parking and coach drop-off, as well as public realm works, will be delivered.

Waterfront flood defences will also be upgraded as part of the scheme.

The plans were designed by Darnton B3 Architects, working with engineers from the council.

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Councillor Ellen Morton, Chair of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee, said: "We are thrilled that the committee voted to grant planning permission for this project and that the people of Helensburgh will finally have the new swimming pool and leisure facility that it so badly needs. There has been a lot of discussion over this project and a lot of strong opinions aired. However, we are confident that today's decision will deliver a facility that will be of great value to the community. I can't wait to see work begin at the site."

Councillor Gary Mulvaney, Policy Lead for Strategic Finance and Capital Regeneration Programme, added: "The purpose of this project was to create a vibrant and attractive waterfront for the town and to help further develop Helensburgh as a great place to live, work, invest and visit. As well as providing state-of-the-art leisure facilities for local people, the Waterfront project is expected to encourage additional private sector investment in the waterfront area and town centre. A lot of hard work has gone into this project and we are grateful for that, as well as for the feedback of everyone who took part in our extensive public consultation."

(CM/JG)