While much of the work may not be immediately visible from the outside, significant strides have been made behind the scenes to protect the facility and begin the complex process of restoration.

The storm inflicted serious damage to the roof of the centre, with around 60% of the outer roofing materials lost. Due to the severity of the impact, the entire roofing system must now be removed and rebuilt layer by layer. Contrary to some suggestions, Argyll and Bute Council said this is far more involved than simply replacing missing roofing sheets.

To safeguard the building in the interim, an internal rainwater capture system, commonly used in similarly affected facilities, has been installed on the advice of disaster recovery experts and insurers. This system is already in place, protecting the interior from further water damage and allowing contractors to work safely on the roof.

Since the storm, the council and its partners have taken rapid action, which has significantly helped to limit the potential length of the closure. Key milestones already achieved include:

• Immediate roof protection measures
• Reopening of car park spaces and EV chargers
• Implementation of alternative gym and fitness arrangements through liveArgyll
• Installation of the internal rainwater capture system
• Application of a temporary waterproof membrane to the roof
• Completion of a detailed damage survey
• Reconfiguration of fencing to restore partial access to the pier

Several other steps are currently in progress, including the development of technical specifications for both the roofing and internal repairs, ongoing discussions with contractors, and coordination with insurers and loss adjustors.

Although there is no confirmed reopening date, the council is working toward a target of reopening by March 2026 at the latest. This estimate is subject to change, depending on the availability of materials, contractor schedules, and the sequencing of the repairs.

There is also consideration being given to the potential early reopening of the ground-floor pool. However, this will only be possible once the roof has been fully replaced, as key electrical systems and overhead works need to be safely completed first.

Councillor Ross Moreland, policy lead for finance and commercial services, said: “We want Helensburgh Leisure Centre to reopen as soon as possible, and we are working hard behind the scenes to make this happen. We are making progress as quickly as circumstances allow, but it is a complex process.

“The ferocity of Storm Eowyn caused considerable damage to the leisure centre. We are extremely grateful to everyone who assisted and stepped up during the initial clear-up to get things moving quickly. We know how much the people of Helensburgh and Lomond value the leisure centre, and we appreciate your patience and understanding during this time. We hope to have more information about the timeline for repairs in the coming weeks, and we will share this as soon as we can.”