Live Borders 'working hard to reinstate services' at Teviotdale Leisure Centre in Hawick
Last updated 11th Sep 2023
Live Borders says it's working hard to reinstate services at Teviotdale Leisure Centre in Hawick.
The swimming pool, cafe and soft play area were forced to close over the weekend after an issue was identified with its boiler system.
But, while it's unclear when the attraction might reopen, the trust has confirmed engineers have arrived on site today (Monday) and started initial works.
Additional swim sessions are being offered at the leisure centre in Selkirk meantime.
A spokesperson for Live Borders said: "We regret to advise that the boiler system at Teviotdale Leisure Centre has been shut down, and that from today (Friday) there will be no hot water for showers, and that the pool temperature will begin to fall to a level that is not usable for swimmers. The pool will therefore need to close beginning Saturday, September 9th.
"All gym and fitness classes will continue as normal, but without the option of showers after the workouts or classes. We regret that soft play and the Cafe will also have to close, but all other activities will operate as normal."
It adds: "Engineers are currently making a comprehensive assessment of the boiler system and the electrical works across the centre. We are working closely with Scottish Borders Council, and we will update you when we have more actionable information on timescales and works required."
READ MORE: Police find car reported stolen in Borders - but second vehicle remains missing
The announcement comes just days after councillors were asked to approve more than ÂŁ300,000 of emergency funding to replace the heating and air handling systems at the Gytes Leisure Centre in Peebles and Eyemouth Leisure Centre - with the latter expected to close for up to two months over the winter to allow the work to be completed.
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.
READ MORE: Tributes paid to missing man after body found
In its statement released on Friday, Live Borders goes on to say: "Many of the Council-owned facilities we operate out of are requiring significant investment or replacement if they are to continue to operate.
"While the 40-year-old boiler system (at Teviotdale Leisure Centre) cleared its regular six-month service in April, the ageing property estate is becoming increasingly costly to maintain and is affecting service delivery and finances and is one of a number of drivers for the ongoing joint review of sport, leisure and cultural services and facilities being undertaken by the Council and Live Borders."
But it adds: "Once again, we are very sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience and support as we move forwards. We are working hard to reinstate services to normal as quickly as we can."
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/