We are pleased to be able to share that major improvements will be coming to both Regional Scout Centres in South East Scotland Scouts.
At its recent meeting the Regional Executive Committee gave the final approval to proceed with development work, starting in early 2023, which will see the facilities at both Centres radically modernised and provide a better experience for Centre users as well as improving accessibility.
The Regional Executive Committee has agreed to substantial investment in both Centres to allow these changes to be made, recognising that these are necessary to ensure their long term future. It is also important to highlight that these developments are only possible due to additional generous funding of £190,950 provided by sportscotland’s Sport Facilities Fund. We are grateful for sportscotland’s support and recognition of the significance of these improvements both to young people across the Region and our wider communities. You can read more about the funding in this press release from sportscotland.
At Longcraig, the funds will be used to:
– extend the existing toilet and shower block,
– upgrade the current changing, office and toilet facilities to provide more flexible and accessible changing/shower facilities,
– provide the foundations for the installation of renewable energy solutions
These renovations will give the Centre flexible changing, shower and toilet facilities as well as improve the accessibility of the Centre making it suitable for people with additional support needs, as well as accommodating all gender identities.
Meanwhile, at Bonaly a new Amenity Hub will be constructed. This will see:
– replacement showers and toilets
– a new drying room for clothing and equipment,
– fully accessible facilities for campers with additional support needs,
– flexible covered space for use in support of camping and outdoor activities,
Proposed location of new amenity block
These improvements will provide increased opportunities for young people of all ages from across the Region to take part in outdoor sport and physical activity and develop Skills for Life.
Martin Elliot, Regional Commissioner said:
“Like many within the Region I have many happy memories from both Longcraig and Bonaly and so I am delighted that these improvements are being made so that future generations of young people can continue to make memories. The Regional Scout Centres at Longcraig and Bonaly are central to us achieving our longer term aims as set out in our Regional Strategy and I look forward to working with both management teams to ensure that we maximise the opportunities for young people to enjoy outdoor experiences”
John Cannon, Regional Chair said:
“I’m delighted as Chair of the Region to see this significant investment in our Scout Centres. These planned developments will truly enhance the experience for everyone who comes to visit them and provides us a great opportunity to encourage even more people to use these great facilities. My thanks go to all on the Regional Executive for giving their support to these ambitious projects and to those people who have been directly involved in making this aspiration a reality.”
Malcolm Leckie, Longcraig Centre Manager said:
“The desire to enhance the facilities at Longcraig was a key outcome of the business plan endorsed by the Regional Executive in 2020 and it is great that it is now, with the support from sportscotland and the REC, going to become a reality. We are all looking forward to welcoming young people back to the upgraded facilities and continuing to deliver adventurous activities in support of the Scouting programme.”
Peter Casebow, Chair, Bonaly Scout Centre said:
“I’m really excited by the investment in the long-term future of Bonaly Scout Centre by both the Region and sportscotland. It will provide us with first class facilities, that secure our future and allow us to continue to be a magical place that makes memories which last a lifetime for all the young people who visit.”
If you are excited by the upcoming changes then now is the ideal time to get involved by supporting the important work of both Centres. If you are interested in joining the enthusiastic teams of volunteers who deliver memorable experiences for young people whether in a front line activity role or a supporting role please reach out to Kirstie Armsworth our Scouting Support Officer at Kirstie.armsworth@sesscouts.org.uk
South East Scotland Scouts
71 Bonaly Road
Edinburgh
EH13 0PB
© SES Scouts 2022 | Scottish Charity SC010563
