Plans Submitted for Strathclyde Country Park Watersports Centre Redevelopment

Holmes Miller has submitted a planning application on behalf of North Lanarkshire Council for the deep retrofit and extension of the Strathclyde Country Park Watersports Centre, one of Scotland’s most popular outdoor attractions. Procured through hub South West, with Linear Design & Construct appointed as the contractor, this ambitious redevelopment aligns with the council’s declaration of a Climate Emergency and aims to establish the site as a world-class sporting venue and sustainable tourism hub.

Originally built in 1976, the Watersports Centre requires significant upgrades to address poor insulation and glazing. The proposed plans target Passivhaus EnerPhit levels of energy efficiency, drastically reducing energy use and carbon emissions. Working closely with the design team, which includes Sussed Sustainability, Doig + Smith (project manager & cost consultant) Curtins (structural engineers), XBuro (mechanical and electrical engineers), and Hirst Landscape Architects, the project aims to achieve an 80% reduction in energy demand and a 93% reduction in carbon emissions annually.

The redevelopment will transform the building’s layout and facilities, repurposing the existing external terrace to provide additional floor area without requiring piled foundations, which enhances energy performance. The first floor will feature upgraded changing areas, offices for North Lanarkshire Council and Edinburgh University Rowing Team, and flexible units available for local enterprises. A new café on the ground floor will open onto a sheltered terrace, providing an inviting space for alfresco dining. A double-height central space and external terraces will make the most of stunning views over the loch, enhancing the visitor experience.

Sustainability is central to the project, with a renewable heat source and extensive photovoltaic panels on the large flat roof generating renewable energy. The building’s electrification, combined with these measures, supports North Lanarkshire Council’s commitment to addressing the Climate Emergency.

Michael Ross, Chief Executive of hub South West, commented: “We are proud to work alongside our partners North Lanarkshire Council, Linear and Holmes Miller on the redevelopment of the Strathclyde Country Park Watersports Centre. This project reflects our commitment to vibrant, sustainable, and community-focused facilities.

In partnership with North Lanarkshire Council, Linear Design & Construct and Holmes Miller Architects, we aim to create an energy-efficient, accessible, and modern facility that serves the needs of the community, sports clubs, and international visitors. The redevelopment prioritises sustainability and inclusivity.

The Strathclyde Country Park Watersports Centre redevelopment showcases what can be achieved through collaboration, sustainability, and community focus. We look forward to the positive impact it will have on North Lanarkshire’s community and visitors.”

James Gemmell, Retrofit Lead at Holmes Miller, commented: “Our design for the Strathclyde Country Park Watersports Centre demonstrates the power of retrofit to deliver meaningful environmental benefits while reimagining an important community asset. By preserving the existing structure and transforming its performance, we can create a sustainable, inspiring facility that serves both the local community and international visitors. This project is an example of how architectural innovation can respond to the urgent challenges of our time.”

The planning application reflects North Lanarkshire Council’s vision for a greener, more inclusive future and builds on the site’s legacy as a host for prestigious international sporting events, including the Commonwealth Games and European Championships.