New vision for Helensburgh as 21st century contract goes out to tender
An artist’s impression and plan for 21st century Helensburgh by the sea.
By Lizzie Healey
The Helensburgh Waterfront Development has reached another milestone with the publication of the public contract notice.
Following the awarding of planning permission by Argyll and Bute Council for the £18 million project last month, contractors are now being invited to bid for the awarding of the contract.
It will result in a new leisure centre and swimming pool opened in the town, replacing the existing facility which will be demolished.
The old open air swimming pool was a magnet for visitors to the town in the middle of last century and many swimming contests and bathing beauty competitions were held there at that time.
A deadline of 11 March has been set, after which the submissions will be evaluated and those which meet the criteria will be invited to tender for the work.
Councillor Gary Mulvaney, Policy Lead for Strategic Finance and Capital Regeneration Programme, pictured left, said: “With planning permission having been granted, the work can start to find the right company to carry out the work that will deliver a fantastic new facility for Helensburgh.
“The publishing of the Contract Notice marks another big step forward for the project and we can start to look forward to seeing work getting started at the site later this year.”
The central feature of the project will be the new leisure facility and swimming pool, with associated parking and coach drop-off, as well as public realm works to meet the needs of the local community and attract day visitors to the town.
Another key aspect of the project will be the improvement of the waterfront flood defences. The existing sea walls were sorely tested by Storm Erik this week.
The Helensburgh Waterfront Development Contract Notice can be viewed on the PCS website at http://www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk
All our yesterdays – this was Helensburgh at its busiest last century.