Works to the roof and exterior of the Citadel Leisure Centre in Ayr will commence on Monday, November 18, South Ayrshire Council has announced.

This marks the beginning of a programme of works at the centre, with this first phase seeing a section of the existing roof replaced to address water ingress which will enhance the roof's thermal performance and the overall energy efficiency of the building.

Meanwhile, brickwork repairs and renewal of some of the glazing around the centre is planned for the exterior work.

Councillor Brian Connolly, portfolio holder for sport and leisure, said: "I’m pleased that we have a start date for the initial external works at the Citadel.

"This is the first step towards bringing the building up to modern standards for our customers and sport and leisure members."

The project will be led by the Council's appointed leisure development specialist, Alliance Leisure, and supported by architect and principal designer, Glasgow-based Holmes Miller and principal contractor, Robertson Construction Central West.

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The rest of the design and build team includes project managers and quantity surveyors, Axiom Project Services; mechanical and electrical engineers, WPS; and structural engineers, Struer.

Alan Cadger, Project Director at Holmes Miller, said: "The Citadel is a prime example of breathing new life into an existing building to create a vibrant and sustainable hub that enhances the lives of its surrounding community.

“The original structure has great potential and we've been inspired to maintain its well-loved character, while modernising its design to cater to the needs of local people.

“Our overarching ambition was to create a recreational space that is accessible to all, where visitors can come together, relax and enjoy the variety of high-quality leisure facilities provided. We look forward to seeing this project come to life in the coming months."

Andy McLinden, Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central West, added: "Working with Alliance Leisure to support South Ayrshire Council in improving and revamping existing buildings for local communities, the much-loved Citadel Leisure Centre will receive a transformation of its facilities.

“With the end users in mind, we will ensure that we deliver a thriving community leisure hub that will promote accessible sport and physical activity opportunities for the local community and beyond."

Some of the parking bays in the Citadel car park will be unavailable from Monday, November 4, as construction vehicles and equipment make way on to the site.

Free parking options close by include some on-street parking in South Harbour Street and the car park on Cromwell Road, which is approximately a five-minute walk from the Citadel.

The centre will be open as normal to customers and sport and leisure members during these exterior works, which are expected to last for around 19 weeks.

To keep up to date on the Citadel improvement works click here.