Dollan Aqua Centre

Dollan Aqua Centre is a 20th-century Category A listed building in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire. Designed by Alexander Buchanan Campbell, it opened in 1968 as Scotland’s first 50-metre swimming pool. The structure features a striking parabolic arched roof made of pre-stressed concrete, supported by V-shaped struts meeting the ground at a 30° angle. Buchanan Campbell drew inspiration from the 1964 Tokyo Olympics architecture by Kenzo Tange. In 1993, Docomomo International recognised it as one of sixty key monuments in Scottish post-war architecture. Historic Scotland listed it as Category A in 2002. The centre’s survival is remarkable given structural challenges. A 2008 survey found parts of the pool tank near collapse, forcing an emergency closure. Refurbishment included new boilers, ventilation, and pool water treatment systems costing over £9 million. Repairs restored the unique roof while upgrading heating, lighting, and insulation. In 2019, vandalism damaged a viewing panel, risking flooding, but staff and emergency services prevented disaster. The centre reopened in 2011 after major repairs. Visitors find a 50-metre pool with a moveable floor, a health suite, two fitness gyms, a crèche, and a café. The building hosted swimming events for the 2011 International Children’s Games. Its concrete marquee-like design remains a striking example of post-war architecture. The interior blends modern facilities with historic structural integrity. The surrounding East Kilbride area offers additional leisure and cultural attractions.