Work has commenced on a major project to transform the Watersports Centre at Strathclyde Country Park into a multi-purpose community facility, with an ambitious target to reduce the building's carbon footprint by at least 80%.

The initial stage, focusing on improving the building's entrance and access, is now underway, ahead of the main internal works scheduled for autumn. The entire redevelopment project is expected to be completed in spring 2027.

The reimagined centre will offer a diverse range of spaces, catering to health and wellbeing activities, providing opportunities for small business start-ups, and accommodating general community use. Key features of the refurbishment include a ground floor café with an outdoor seating area, improved facilities for outdoor education activities, a welcoming foyer and reception, flexible business rooms, a conference room, and dedicated office space. Accessibility is a core focus, with improved public toilets, including Changing Places facilities, and an increased capacity lift.

A cornerstone of this regeneration project is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The substantial carbon footprint reduction will be achieved through the retro-fitting of super-efficient insulation and the generation of energy from a heat pump located in the loch, complemented by solar panels on the roof. Furthermore, the project will incorporate increased electric vehicle charging infrastructure, enhanced cycle storage, and refreshed changing rooms, all designed to encourage active and low-carbon travel to the site.


North Lanarkshire Council is currently engaging the public in a consultation to decide on a new name for the building, to reflect its expanded role. Views can be submitted via an online form.

Councillor Helen Loughran, Convener of the Environment and Climate Change Committee, highlighted the vision for the project: "The Watersports Centre building has provided a base for activities at the park for 50 years and this transformative project will give it a bright new future. We will reduce its carbon footprint, making the building more efficient and sustainable to run, and provide multi-purpose spaces for community groups and others to use as well as creating spaces for small businesses."

Ryan Broadley, Managing Director of Linear Design and Construct, the firm carrying out the building works, expressed his satisfaction: "We're really pleased to be working with North Lanarkshire Council and hub South West on this retrofit project. As a local contractor, it means a lot to be involved in work at Strathclyde Park, a spot that's close to home and loved by many of our team."

Tom McEwan, Development Manager at hub South West, who are assisting with the project's organisation, commented: "This milestone marks the redevelopment of Strathclyde Water Sports Centre. It represents a major investment in community wellbeing, sustainability, and inclusive access to sport. Reimagining and reusing existing public assets is central to our mission, and this project is a great example of how strategic refurbishment and retrofit can create long-term value for both people and place."

This Watersports Centre project is a key component of the council's wider "Country Parks for the Future" programme, an initiative aimed at transforming all three of North Lanarkshire's country parks: Strathclyde, Drumpellier, and Palacerigg.