Under this timetable, it’s anticipated that the improvements at the Tranent facility would be completed in June 2027.

Funding for the renovation has come from East Lothian Council’s capital budget and the project is being delivered over a three-year period.

During 2024/25, the council was involved in completing enabling works around the heating and other services supplying the centre.

This year the focus is on the design work and procurement. The tendering process to appoint a contractor for the works is expected to be concluded in December.

Following a comprehensive review, it has been determined that closing the centre between June 2026 and June 2027 for the works that mark the final phase of the project was the safest and most economical way to carry out the essential repairs. Once completed, the works will provide the town with a refreshed facility fit for the future.

Councillor Colin McGinn, the council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing and Sport, Countryside and Leisure, said: “We are glad that a date has been planned for the repair and refurbishment work to commence and we are thankful to Loch Centre users for their continuing patience throughout this difficult period.

“This has been a hugely challenging and complex project given the age and condition of a building which is more than 50 years old. The decision to close the centre for the duration of the works was not taken lightly, and we apologise to the customers and groups who will be affected.

“The council remains committed to delivering a revitalised and modernised Loch Centre of the highest standard for the whole community.”

Bill Axon, chief executive of Enjoy Leisure, added: “Built in 1970, the Loch Centre has served the community for over 50 years. To ensure it remains a modern and functional facility, essential maintenance and upgrades are required. We’re excited to be working towards the opening of the upgraded facility opening in 2027. During this period, we will work closely with our partners at East Lothian Council and provide support wherever possible.

“We appreciate that the temporary closure of the Loch Centre will impact the Tranent community, and we’re committed to minimise disruption. Our management plan will aim to accommodate all of our clubs, classes, and all other activities at our other facilities in East Lothian. We will keep our colleagues, customers, and members up to date as these plans are finalised.

“I am also delighted that we now have a timescale for these works and, barring any unforeseen obstacles, the upgrading and developments will be complete within 12 months period, especially as we anticipated it may be longer. This clarity provides Enjoy Leisure with an opportunity to implement a strategy which will benefit both customers and colleagues alike by minimising disruption as best we can.

“Importantly, no jobs will be at risk during the closure. The full team at the Loch Centre will all be offered opportunities at an alternative Enjoy Leisure site.”