Changes to Gardyne Sports Centre Gym and Pool

The College has also decided to withdraw public access to the Sports Centre, which will focus on student use and curriculum delivery.

Staff and stakeholders were notified of the review in May, and an extended period of consultation has been held to allow all views to be considered.
Proposals submitted by stakeholders were considered, including increasing fees and adapting opening hours. Unfortunately, even with significant increases in fees, the Sports Centre and pool would require a substantial subsidy (c.£186,000 in academic year 2025/26) to remain open. This cost would likely increase further in subsequent years.

The cost of essential maintenance for the pool to keep it in a safe and serviceable condition is estimated to be around £180,000. This maintenance cost would be on top of the subsidy the centre would need to remain open.

The College receives no public or other funding to run a publicly accessible pool and sports centre. Given the challenging economic environment across the public sector the College feels that it must concentrate its limited funding on the core business of teaching and supporting students.

Andy Ross, Director of Infrastructure at Dundee & Angus College, said: “We are aware this outcome will be disappointing for current members and the decision has not been taken lightly.

“We recognise the disappointment the outcome may cause. The College has had little choice in the face of rising costs, the age and condition of the pool and the need to focus our limited funding on our core curriculum and services for students.

“We understand the health and wellbeing benefits of swimming and exercise, as well as the importance of swimming as a life skill. The College has worked in close partnership with local pools and gyms to mitigate the impact of the decision on service users and, as far as possible, alternative options and offers have been made available for current members and customers.”

The College has been working closely with Angus Alive and Active Dundee throughout the consultation period and alternative gym and pool activities are being offered to current Sports Centre members who have been informed of the closure decision.

The Gardyne pool will close and public access to the Sports Centre will stop by 31st July 2025. Staff members were notified of the outcome yesterday and we are supporting individuals impacted by this decision.