The proposal agreed at a full council meeting last week is to invest £56 million in developing a new facility which includes state-of-the-art gym and leisure facilities, a theatre and library.

Work will now be progressed to finalise the plans, with construction expected to start in spring 2025.

The new facility is planned to be complete by summer 2028, with the current leisure centre and theatre continuing to operate throughout the construction.

East Renfrewshire Council leader Owen O’Donnell said: “I am delighted this project is now moving forward, and when complete the new facilities will be transformational for the area. We are committed to providing the best opportunities for all our residents to lead an active, healthy lifestyle and this new facility will provide just that. With a modern gym and swimming pool, as well as fantastic theatre and library spaces, it will provide us with a centre for all of East Renfrewshire to be proud of. I can’t wait to see work getting started.”

Further work will also be carried out during the next phase of the design to consider how best to maximise the use of space within the new facility, which will ensure the building is as cost effective as possible.

The current Eastwood Leisure Centre has an annual capacity of 285,000 people, with the new proposal having the potential to provide services for around 650,000.