Falkirk councillors are set to review a proposed procurement strategy on Thursday, 19 June, 2025, aimed at appointing a single contractor for the construction of new multi-million-pound sport and leisure facilities in Bo'ness and Denny.

The report also seeks support for developing a detailed business case for a major investment at Braes High School, which will require future approval.

The proposed strategy is designed to ensure value for money, mitigate risks, and maintain project timelines by bringing in experienced teams to manage the construction and support design and delivery across both sites. If approved, the procurement process is slated to begin the week of June 23, 2025, with contractor appointments expected later in the summer.

At Bo'ness Academy, design development is already underway for the proposed £4.3 million community sport and leisure wing, marking the first new facility under the council's Sport and Leisure Investment Programme. Site investigations are in progress, statutory consents are being pursued, and internal school alterations are being finalised. Should the procurement strategy be approved, construction is anticipated to commence in late 2025 or early 2026, with completion targeted for autumn/winter 2026. This project involves complex elements, including the demolition of the former recreation centre (which includes asbestos removal) and the transition of the Academy from a public-private partnership (PPP) back to Council ownership in August.

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The Denny project, a standalone facility in the town centre, is part of phase two of the Sport and Leisure Investment Programme and is projected to cost £5.3m. Work is expected to begin in spring/summer 2026 and conclude by summer/autumn 2027, representing a further phase in the regeneration of Denny Town Centre. Site investigations, design development, and the progression of statutory consents and a business case are already in motion for this project.

For Braes High School, officers are continuing to develop a business case that considers both community sport and leisure provisions alongside future educational accommodation needs. This business case is scheduled for review by council members in December 2025, and if approved in principle, the estimated £7.5m investment would be considered during the 2026/27 budget setting process. To support the business case development, proposals include commissioning technical advisers concurrently with those for Bo'ness and Denny, aiming for consistency, efficiency, and optimal use of funding.

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services, emphasised the broader impact of the investment: "Sport and leisure facilities are a key part of healthy and thriving communities – but this investment is about more than just buildings. It's about creating high-quality facilities that meet local needs and expectations." He noted that the proposals lay out a clear path from planning to delivery and align with the council's approved "hub and spoke" model for sport and leisure provision.