Latest update
Published
Header image for article 7870

Pictured: Work on the new sport and leisure wing at Bo’ness Academy could start in August this year. 


Plans for new community sports and leisure facilities could take a crucial step forward this month as councillors consider approving phased investment in Bo’ness and Denny and the development of a detailed business case for extending Braes High School.  

The proposals, outlined in a report being discussed by the Council’s Executive on Thursday 23 January 2025, have been informed by extensive public engagement and further design work. 

If the proposals are approved, the facilities would bring modern, accessible sport and leisure facilities to areas designated as ‘spokes’ within the Council’s ‘Hub and Spoke’ model for leisure provision, as part of a new and recently approved approach.   

Refining proposals

To gather feedback on outline designs and potential uses for the three facilities, public events were held last autumn in Bo'ness Academy, Denny High School and Braes High School.

An online survey was also launched, gathering views from almost 2,300 people.

The feedback provided has been used by council officers to refine the proposals for the facilities.

The three sites

In the report being presented, officers recommend building a £4.3m new sports wing at Bo'ness Academy as the first phase of the Community Sport and Leisure Investment Programme.

Plans now include a 40-station fitness suite, enhanced wet and dry changing facilities, a multi-purpose studio and flexible gym spaces.

There would also be improved accessibility with the inclusion of a Changing Places toilet and locker provision would be expanded, as well as a seated area with vending facilities added.

Construction would begin in August 2025, with completion anticipated October 2026.

Phase two of the Sport and Leisure Investment Programme would see the delivery of a £5.3m standalone sports facility in Denny Town Centre.

 

 

Denny artist impression

Pictured: Artist's impression of the proposed new facility in Denny Town Centre.


Officers believe the project would not only provide those living in and near Denny with much-needed sports amenities but also contribute to the town's regeneration, boosting economic activity.

The facility would include a fitness suite, multi-purpose studio and changing facilities.

Work would start in spring 2026, with completion anticipated mid-2027.

Braes HS artist impression

Pictured: Feedback from the local community highlighted the courtyard infill as the preferred option for Braes, which would create a sport and leisure facility as well as additional space for pupils at the high school.


Plans for an extension to Braes High School, estimated at £7.5m, remain in the early stages.

This extension would include a new community Sport and Leisure facility but it would also align with accommodation needs for the school following a review of the learning estate and future capacity requirements. Council officers state budget constraints and site challenges mean further investigations are needed, with councillors being asked to revisit proposals in late 2025 when more detailed plans and costs can be presented.

Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services, said: "These plans mark a major step forward in improving sport and leisure provision across Falkirk, ensuring facilities are accessible to all. By listening to community feedback and aligning with our strategic goals, we aim to provide local people with modern amenities that enhance health and wellbeing.

“It is now for councillors to decide if the Council should progress with proposals for Bo'ness and Denny as phase 1 and 2 and whether a future update should be brought before them later in the year regarding Braes."

Related content:

Executive: Falkirk Council approves a strategy of major upgrades to sports facilities

Executive: Major new community sports and leisure facilities could be built across the Falkirk area