Construction and property consultant Thomas & Adamson (T&A) spearheaded the £47m transformation, a joint venture between Edinburgh Leisure and the City of Edinburgh Council, acting as project manager, principal designer and employer’s agent on the prestigious project.

The new top-of-the-range facility includes an outdoor track with a 499-seat stand, throwing area and jumps area; two multi-sport games halls with seating and a third hall available to book for local sports clubs and groups; two fitness studios; a cycle studio; a gym - the largest of all Edinburgh Leisure’s venues; a 60m indoor athletics track and jumps space; racquet sports – two squash courts, as well as badminton and table tennis; a combat studio for martial arts; a boxing gym for use by private clubs; two FIFA 3G all-weather pitches, changing facilities, café, office space and meeting rooms.

The new centre replaces the previous Meadowbank complex, originally constructed in 1968 to host the 1970 Commonwealth Games and is part of a wider regeneration masterplan that will see new homes and community facilities developed on the surrounding site.

Richard Burgham Pearson, senior project manager said: “The completion of this fantastic facility is a huge testament to everyone involved, and we are proud to have played a major role in bringing this transformative vision to life.

“Meadowbank is an integral part of the sporting culture in Edinburgh, with many Olympic and Commonwealth athletes having trained and competed at the venue. It is also a popular venue for the community and a well-loved landmark; therefore, it’s been hugely important throughout this time to involve the local community and keep them informed of the progress, particularly with the many challenges faced during national lockdowns and supplier shortages.

“The result is an exceptional and inspiring sports centre that the area can be proud of and enjoy. A new era has begun for Meadowbank which will provide a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

June Peebles, Edinburgh Leisure’s chief executive, said: “The new Meadowbank Sports Centre has been a long time coming but it’s been worth the wait.

“The new Meadowbank will pick up where the old Meadowbank left off, providing countless opportunities for generations to come to participate in physical activity and sport. New memories will be created, and we’re delighted to welcome the people of Edinburgh and beyond, into the new venue. A multi-million-pound investment has secured a bright future for physical activity in Edinburgh.”