CLYDEBANK’S leisure centre is up for two top design prizes less than a year after it opened.

The centre was selected for the RICS Awards Scotland shortlist in the categories of regeneration and tourism and leisure.

Designed with views over the Clyde and the former shipyards, the state-of-the-art centre has been attracting large numbers of new members.

It faces Kirkintilloch Town Hall and Marischal Square in Aberdeen in the regeneration category. 

In the tourism and leisure group, it’s up against the Falls of Shin in Lairg, Kirkmichael on the Black Isle, and St Cecilia’s Hall in Edinburgh.

Provost William Hendrie told the Post: “It’s well designed and thousands are coming to the centre now. The place is very exciting for people visiting as a modern and up-to-date facility and hopefully will continue visiting for years to come.”

Councillor Gail Casey, who said she is regularly using the centre herself, said: “It’s a fantastic place. The facilities are really good and the staff are very good - they know what they’re doing. I think this is fantastic news.”

Colin Smith, chairman of the RICS Awards 2018 Scotland judging panel, said: “This year we have received some extremely diverse and outstanding projects from all over Scotland.

“Each and every project showcases the exceptional talent behind these buildings of our future. The variety of projects highlights the development that is happening right across our nation and I am confident 2018 will be a hotly contested year. 

“I look forward to celebrating the successes of Scotland’s exceptional talent and projects at this year’s ceremony in April.”

A total of 27 projects will compete in eight categories on April 19 in Edinburgh before going on to UK finals in November.