Outdoor Pursuit Centre

ECD Architects are appointed by East Dunbartonshire Council to design and deliver a new Outdoor Pursuit Centre on Twechar’s canalside as part of the Twechar Community Action Plan, which targets improvements in Community Activities, Environment, Public Services, and Tourism. Working closely with Twechar Community Action Group, the project aims to create an engaging community space that maximises the canal’s potential, featuring watersports such as kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. A bike workshop is also included, offering skills development opportunities and connections to the local cycle network.

The new facility will provide flexible, bookable seminar rooms for community meetings, classes and clubs, creating a multi-functional space for various uses. Designed in a contemporary interpretation of the traditional boathouse form, the building will blend with the industrial character of nearby canal structures. The centre’s linear gable-ended design, clad in dark grey aluminium with standing seams, reflects the tones of surrounding village buildings, with accents that add a welcoming touch for the community.

The layout separates “wet” and “dry” zones for different activities, with central toilet facilities accessible from both interior and exterior spaces. Key features include a bicycle workshop, boat storage, wash areas, changing rooms, showers, a reception area, and two canal-facing seminar rooms that can be combined into a larger space for activities like yoga or community functions. Outdoor terraces, landscaped gardens, and community growing spaces will enhance biodiversity and provide gathering spaces.

The entire site layout focuses on sustainable design, incorporating cycle and pedestrian-friendly pathways, and connecting to the canal. Accessibility is integral, with level access at all entrances, automatic doors, and external paths designed with shallow gradients to accommodate all users. The Outdoor Pursuit Centre at Twechar represents a vibrant, inclusive hub for community activities, enhancing connections to nature and promoting outdoor recreation in a sustainable, accessible way.

Team:

• East Dunbartonshire Council – Client
• ECD Architects – Architect
• MBLA Design Ltd. – Landscape Architect
• Faithful+Gould, now AtkinsRéalis – Project Manager & Cost Consultant
• Barton  Willmore, now Santec – Planning Consultant
• Curtins – Structural Engineer
• Hoare Lea – M&E Engineer
• Morgan Sindall – Contractor