Scottish leisure centre faces partial demolition
Demolition contractors have been brought in to carry out a partial demolition of a fire-ravaged Scottish leisure centre, amid hopes that parts of it can be salvaged and reopened.
The swimming pool complex at the Xcite centre in Whitburn, West Lothian, was destroyed beyond repair during the blaze on the weekend. Managers of the centre have said, however, that they hope to be able to remove the remains of that structure as soon as possible and look to reopen the complex's fitness centre and other facilities.
General manager, Robin Strang, praised the actions of the staff during the devastation on Saturday, when they had to hastily evacuate all members of the public from the pool area.
"The staff at the pool have to be commended for their actions in safely evacuating the pool," he said. "We have been advised that the part of the building where the swimming pool is located is dangerous and will be demolished.
He said the fire came at the worst possible time - just as local children are beginning their school holidays - but that they were hopeful to secure a swift resolution.
"At this point we are hopeful that the fitness centre can be saved," added Mr Strang. "At this stage, however, we expect that it will be a day or two before a full assessment can confirm the action that we need to take."
