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The £20 million transformation of the University of Stirling’s sports facilities has reached a major milestone this week as it prepares for the commencement of building works.
With demolition of the old site now complete, work will begin on the construction of an iconic new sports complex that will be integrated with existing world-class facilities at Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence.
Professor Gerry McCormac, University Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: “We are making a significant investment to transform our campus into one of the best in the UK, and the sports facilities redevelopment is a major part of this vision.
“With the project now underway, and the stunning Campus Central project not far behind, this is an exciting time for the University as we continue apace towards a sector-leading student experience.”
Professor Gerry McCormac (right) with Construction Manager, Graeme Lang.
Linking all facilities under one roof, the new building will include purpose-built studios, an innovative fitness suite, three-court sports hall, indoor cycling studio, strength and conditioning area, as well as a new state-of-the-art high performance suite. Users of the new building will also benefit from enhanced changing facilities and communal spaces. The National Swimming Academy, National Tennis Centre, sports hall and squash courts will remain in their current form.
University of Stirling Director of Sport, Cathy Gallagher, said: “This is a significant moment for sport, health and wellbeing at the University of Stirling and signals the start of a transformational chapter in our history. An extraordinary amount of effort, collaboration and innovation has gone into the planning and preparatory stages of the project, so to see the build commence brings an enormous sense of pride and excitement about what lies ahead.
“We strive to set national and international standards in both performance and participation sport and the redevelopment will help expedite our vision for delivering an unrivalled sporting experience for our students, staff, partners and the Stirling community.”
Stirling Students' Union President, Astrid Smallenbroek, added: “Between the sports facilities redevelopment, Campus Central and new Courtyard development, it’s fantastic to see such an investment being made in the campus and Stirling’s student experience.
“To see the sports centre site cleared is quite surreal but there is also a great sense of anticipation, knowing what the new building will bring for our students.”
Astrid Smallenbroek (left) with Professor Gerry McCormac and Sports President, Caitlin Ormiston.
Morrison Construction, Construction Manager, Graeme Lang, said: ‘‘We look forward to continuing our successful working relationship with the University of Stirling and deliver this exciting new development.
‘‘This project will provide elite athletes, students and the wider community with a modern environment to pursue their sporting ambitions.’’
The sports facilities redevelopment is part of a programme of investment at the University that will also see the creation of a new three-storey building at the heart of campus, as well as a new Courtyard development. The new sports centre is anticipated to be in operation by summer 2020.