Plans for a replacement swimming pool and leisure facility in Helensburgh have taken a major step forward with the appointment of the Consultant Team to undertake the Outline Business Case (OBC).

The contract to carry out the OBC for the new building was awarded to a team led by Gareth Hoskins Architects (GHA) and Sport and Leisure Consultancy PMR Leisure after an exhaustive selection process.

News of the appointment was welcomed by Councillor George Freeman, Chair of the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee.

"This team provides a strong mix of professional skills and experience, with a proven track record of successful delivery of project objectives," he said.

"The GHA team submitted a very strong and competitive tender, which was underpinned by a sound knowledge of the Helensburgh and Lomond area. I look forward to seeing the results of their work later in the year."

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Gareth Hoskins, leading the team of consultants said: "As someone with a young family living in the town, I very much appreciate the importance of the existing pool and facilities for local people, but am also acutely aware of the tired and cramped conditions in which these are currently housed.

"As such, I am very pleased for us to be working with Argyll and Bute Council to engage with the local community to understand the needs for a new facility and, to develop a clear vision for what will be an important new public building and asset for the regeneration of the town."

Working in partnership with Sportscotland, a full Area Sports Facility Strategy will be developed in conjunction with the OBC, which will assess all sports and leisure facilities in the Helensburgh and Lomond area (both Council and third party).

This Strategy will not only provide a solid foundation for Council decision-making, but also an up to date, comprehensive picture of facilities in the area which can be included in any future funding application to Sportscotland.

As part of the over all work the PMR Leisure team will be undertaking community consultation work and they are keen that everyone with an interest gets actively involved in the consultation process.

This will kick off with a public meeting in the Victoria Halls, Helensburgh at 19.00 on Tuesday 8 September.

(GK/BMcC)