Built to Passivhaus environmental standards, the new centre features a 25m swimming pool, sports halls, fitness suite, dance studio, changing facilities, offices, and a PE classroom.

The pool features a movable floor that allows it to separate into two distinct parts with differing levels of depth.

Perth and Kinross Council leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “This is a really important day for the people of Blairgowrie and across Eastern Perthshire.

“The new Blairgowrie Recreation Centre provides state-of-the-art facilities for the people of Eastern Perthshire and, of course, pupils at Blairgowrie High School.

“Plans for the centre were first put forward years ago but the green light for the project was only given in 2022 when the council agreed to fund this £36m project.

“It has been a long road to get to this point but I am sure this will be a much-loved and well-used facility and would urge everyone to come along to the open day on Saturday and see exactly what it offers.”

Live Active Leisure chairman Ian Collins added: “We’re thrilled to open our doors this weekend, August 29-31, for three days of exceptional value and family fun. From £1 swim and gym sessions to free sports hall activities and our exciting new Aqua Run challenge, there’s something for everyone. 

“This weekend is the perfect opportunity to showcase this fantastic venue and it’s facilities and we look forward to welcoming the whole community through our doors.”

The new centre has been designed by architects Holmes Miller and was delivered by BAM.

Jim Ward, BAM regional director, Scotland, said: “This centre sets a new benchmark for leisure facilities in the UK. By applying Passivhaus principles to a swimming pool, we have cut energy demand in one of the most power intensive building types.

“The result is a high-quality facility that the community can enjoy with lower running costs and long-term sustainability.”

Gary Bushnell, chief executive of hub East Central Scotland, said: “We are proud to have worked with Perth and Kinross Council to deliver the new Blairgowrie Recreation Centre and delighted to see it opening to the public.

“It provides high-quality facilities built to rigorous Passivhaus environmental standard that will benefit the local community for generations to come.”

Yida Zhou, project architect at Holmes Miller, added: “This project marks a significant milestone not only for Perth and Kinross Council, but for Scotland. As the first of its kind in the country, it is a testament to what can be achieved when good design and sustainability are combined. With this being a landmark building in the area, we understood its cultural significance and wanted to design a space that would pay homage to the local community, enhance the experience and learning of students, and meet the Council’s ambitious sustainability targets.

“We hope Blairgowrie Recreation Centre will inspire more leisure centres in Scotland to be designed with Passivhaus in mind, creating inclusive, sustainable spaces where communities can thrive.”