Bosses behind a much-needed state-of-the-arts sports facility for Perth are closer to reaching their target of £25 million to build the facility, it’s been revealed.
The PH2O project, which has been described as a “jewel in the crown” for Perth and Kinross, would see new swimming pools and an upgraded ice rink built on the site of the existing Perth Leisure Pool and Dewar’s ice facility in Perth.
A total of £15m has now been secured and PH2O bosses have been in talks with Perth and Kinross Council with a view to the local authority contributing towards the £10m shortfall.
If the necessary £25m target is met, the ambitious project will result in 20 different sports being available to users. And it’s been suggested that the sports hub could generate £9m annually into the local economy.
On Thursday, Mike Robinson, chair of Live Active Leisure (LAL), who is behind PH2O, said: “Our intention now is to bring forward the revised and refreshed business case, which we are working on with council officials. This lays out the funding we have identified, which is currently in the region of £15 million, and a plan for sourcing the rest.
“My hope is that councillors will recognise the importance of this new facility and give it their wholehearted backing as we must replace these existing ageing facilities.”
He continued: “There is a great opportunity to do something really positive for Perth and the wider area by ensuring the future of this essential venue and helping deliver huge health and economic benefits for all. Live Active Leisure has been entrusted for over 50 years to provide and operate venues and services whilst delivering significant efficiencies and ensuring sport and physical activity remain affordable in Perth and Kinross.
“As well as the obvious sport, health and well-being benefits, the project will also deliver significant economic and social impact, with the latest report commissioned from the Moffat Centre at Glasgow Caledonian University calculating that the development will directly project £9m of benefit annually into the local community.”
