Aberdeen’s network of sports centres is to benefit from a significant package of building improvements over the next three years, as part of a £27.164 million programme agreed by Aberdeen City Council.
The funding, approved yesterday at the Council’s Finance and Resources Committee, will be directed through the Condition & Suitability Programme to repair and upgrade priority buildings across the city. Sports facilities form a major strand of the work, with projects ranging from new lighting and roofing to improved accessibility and modernised heating systems.
Committee convener Councillor Alex McLellan said the investment would support local people’s wellbeing as well as the long‑term future of the centres. He said: “Sports centres around Aberdeen mean people get a chance to take part in activities which are good for their physical and mental health. I am sure these upgrades will be welcomed by people using the sports centres as well as staff.”
Council Co‑Leader Ian Yuill underlined that the programme is part of a wider effort to keep Aberdeen an attractive place to live, work and visit. He said: “The Council is investing in these buildings as part of the work being carried out to ensure people continue to want to live, work, and visit Aberdeen. By continuing to keep the buildings in good repair, it will ensure people can get access to sports centres in their areas.”
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Across the city, a series of specific projects will be undertaken at key facilities:
- At Aberdeen Snowsports Centre, lights will be replaced and a push‑pad entry system installed at the main entrance to improve usability and efficiency.
- Aberdeen Sports Village Gym will see its entrance gate replaced.
- Aberdeen Tennis Centre will also gain a push‑pad entry system at the main entrance, enhancing accessibility for users.
- Bridge of Don Swimming Pool will undergo tiling and grouting repairs, expansion joint renewals and a flat roof replacement to address wear and tear and safeguard the building.
- Culter Sports Centre will benefit from re‑tarmacing of the main car parking areas and associated roadways, improving safety and access for visitors.
- Further works at Culter Sports Centre will target the roof structure and bay windows, extending the life of the building and improving its appearance.
- Get active @ Peterculter will see a full replacement of sports hall and studio lighting, with existing fluorescent lamps upgraded to modern LED lighting to cut energy use and improve lighting quality.
- Kincorth Sports Centre is to have its main air‑handling units replaced, improving ventilation and comfort for centre users.
- At Linx Ice Arena, automatic doors will be installed and the building management system upgraded, modernising access and improving operational efficiency.
- Sheddocksley Sports Centre will see improvements to Sheddocksley Playing Fields, including upgraded drainage, alongside boiler replacement and essential heating system improvements to support year‑round use.
- Westburn Lounge and Outdoor Sports Centre will benefit from accessibility improvements, helping more people to access and enjoy the facilities.
Council leaders say the programme is designed not only to tackle immediate maintenance needs but to future‑proof facilities against rising energy costs and changing user expectations. With upgrades such as LED lighting, modern heating and better building management systems, the scheme is expected to deliver operational efficiencies as well as a better experience for residents.
Work on the various projects will be phased over the next three financial years, with timetables for individual centres to be communicated locally as plans are finalised.
