Opinions welcome on new Larkhall Leisure Centre

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


People in Larkhall are being urged by South Lanarkshire Council leader Joe Fagan to ensure they have their say on plans for a new-look leisure facility on their doorsteps.

Consultation on the town's new leisure centre is continuing with the launch of an online survey.

But there has been some controversy over the new facility, with members of the pickleball club claiming they will not have the space to participate in their sport, with suggestions they may be forced to travel around the region to enjoy it.

And this will give people an opportunity to voice their concerns on those kind of issues.

Previous drop-in sessions at the Lighthouse and the centre itself were well attended by the community and existing users of the centre.

The online consultation will be open until Friday, November 15.

Pupils from Larkhall Academy also had the opportunity to drop in to a previous consultation event at the school to look over the plans and also speak to the representatives from BAM construction and Holmes Miller architects.

There was also a curriculum event for P7s at the school on the same day, which was attended by several hundred parents, and allowed these pupils and their parents the opportunity to review the plans and ask questions.

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Councillor Fagan said: “I am delighted that so many people attended the in-person consultation events. For those unable to attend in person, please take the opportunity to complete the online survey as the local community’s views are a key part of this project.”

Officials say they are “looking at options including the provision of a multi-functional space” during the current project work in Larkhall and that further consultation will also be carried out.

Community and enterprise resources executive director David Booth previously said: “We are aware of the challenges with community facilities in Larkhall and the impact this may have on local groups.

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“Alternative dates and venues have been secured to enable the pickleball group members to continue to play while awaiting the development of the new Larkhall Leisure Centre.

“We appreciate the desire of the group to play in the Larkhall area and the design team for the new leisure centre are looking at options, including the provision of a multi-functional space.

“Further consultation will be held with the local community and elected members on the design of the new centre. The council and South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture remain committed to ensuring the best possible new leisure facility for the community of Larkhall.“

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