Live Borders confirms date Eyemouth Leisure Centre to close for vital repairs

Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 17th Oct 2023
Last updated 17th Oct 2023

Live Borders has confirmed the date Eyemouth Leisure Centre will close for vital repairs.

Recently, we reported the seaside attraction could shut for a number of months over the winter to allow work to be carried out on its air handling unit.

But the operators say the investment of around £250,000 will help secure the long-term future of the pool and gym.

"Members and users of Eyemouth Leisure Centre will be aware that the air temperature of the facility has been uncomfortable for some periods over the last weeks," a spokesperson said. "This is due to the breakdown of the main air handling unit (AHU), which is over 30 years old, with no repair possible.

"To date we have managed to keep the pool operating as normal despite the failed AHU. Replacing the pool AHU is a significant project and will require full closure while the works are undertaken.

"Therefore, we regret to advise that Eyemouth Leisure Centre (pool and gym) will close from November 20th. It is currently estimated by contractors that the facility will be closed until mid-February."

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All Learn to Swim and OneClub members will have their direct debit payments frozen from October.

The nearest alternative facilties are in Berwick - a 17-mile round-trip - or Duns - a 27-mile round-trip.

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Live Borders is apologising in advance for the disruption. It added: "The scale of works and investment are significant; it requires heavy lifting crane to be on site to put the new AHU in place with extensive works either side. The site will not be safe for public access.

"We will keep everyone informed of progress, and of course the centre will reopen as soon as is possible."

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The swimming pools in Hawick and Peebles have also been forced to close for repairs in recent months.

Concerns over maintenance prompted one councillor to suggest that Live Borders, which manages the facilities on behalf of Scottish Borders Council, could be stripped of some of its responsibilities following a comprehensive review of the organisation.

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