The former Rodney centre in Perth could become an outdoor activities centre or social enterprise cafe under plans to revitalise the building.
The Dundee Road facility has been out of use since June after councillors agreed to withdraw gym and fitness services.
Its equipment was moved to the nearby Bell’s Sports Centre.
Perth and Kinross Council officials then looked into whether there were any other potential uses for the building – including as an annexe for Kinnoull Primary School.
Rodney centre no longer needed by council
However, officials have deemed that the building is not needed by the council.
Now, councillors are being told that there are two groups interested in taking over the centre for use under community asset transfer (CAT).
One would see it turned into a new riverside social enterprise cafe and training opportunity and the other an activity centre with river activities.
The details of those behind these plans have not been revealed.
Perth Arts previously said it wanted to turn the Rodney centre into an arts studio with cafe but founder Louise Velazquez says she has not heard from the council since.
A report going before councillors next week says: “The high profile of the Rodney Pavillion generated considerable interest from community groups.
“All community group inquiries were supported by the council’s communities team and from these initial inquiries, expressions of interest have been received from two groups regarding developing the Rodney Pavillion.
“These proposals relate to the creation of a new riverside social enterprise cafe and training opportunity, as well as developing a new site for river-borne and other outdoor activities.
Business case for future of Rodney
“The CAT team met with representatives of these groups on September 15 2022 to discuss their proposals in more detail and consider the next steps in
the process.
“This will involve the groups undertaking building surveys and
feasibility work to establish the requirements and costs of bringing the building
up to the required standard.
“The CAT process also requires the applicant to submit a formal business case
which describes a sustainable model for the development and long-term
management of the building.
“If the development time for this business case is lengthy, there is a risk that, during this period, the council will be liable for the ongoing maintenance and security of the building.”
If no formal CAT request has been received by the council by May 2023, it would be placed on the market.
Councillors will meet on Monday to discuss the report.
A survey in 2019 showed the Rodney was in a satisfactory condition but would need about £600,000 spent on it to bring it up to standard.
It currently costs the council about £40,000 to run and maintain.
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