Replacing Atlantis Leisure’s end-of-life pool air handling unit to reduce energy waste, cut carbon emissions, and improve environmental efficiency across the facility.
Estimated Price
160000
Atlantis Leisure is a vibrant, community-run health and wellbeing hub in the heart of Oban. For over 30 years, we’ve been a lifeline for locals of all ages - a place where toddlers learn to swim, teens train with sports clubs, adults improve their fitness and older residents stay active and connected. As a registered charity and social enterprise, every penny we earn is reinvested into improving our facilities and programmes. Our centre features a swimming pool, gym, sports hall, climbing wall, tennis courts, studios, soft play, and more — all designed to support active, healthy lives. We work hand-in-hand with schools, NHS partners, and community groups to deliver inclusive, high-impact services. Parts of our centre are over 50 years old - this carries a maintenance responsibility which we proudly bear each year because it speaks to how loved and well-used our centre is by the community. With over 150,000 visits a year and no other facility like it within 95 miles, Atlantis isn’t just a leisure centre — it’s the beating heart of our community.
1. What do you want to do?
We propose to replace the outdated air rehandling unit (ARU) in Atlantis Leisure’s over 50 year old swimming pool area. The current system expels heated, moisture-laden air directly outside, resulting in significant energy loss and high utility costs.
By installing a modern, energy-efficient ARU with heat recovery capabilities, we will capture and reuse heat from the expelled air. This recovered energy can be redirected to heat the pool area and other parts of the building, improving thermal efficiency and reducing our carbon footprint.
This upgrade is a key part of Atlantis Leisure’s ongoing sustainability strategy and long-term vision for environmentally responsible operations.
2. Why is your project needed?
The existing air handling system is outdated and inefficient, leading to high energy consumption, rising bills, and unnecessary environmental impact. Atlantis Leisure is a major community hub in Oban, and our facilities are in near-constant use, particularly the pool.
With energy prices soaring and public interest in sustainability increasing, the need to improve the environmental performance of our facility has become both urgent and essential.
This upgrade will futureproof the facility, reduce our operating costs, and ensure that public resources are used efficiently and responsibly.
3. What positive changes will your project being about?
Environmental Impact: Dramatically reduce carbon emissions by capturing and reusing heat that is currently wasted.
Cost Savings: Lower monthly energy bills, allowing Atlantis to reinvest savings into services and maintenance.
Long-Term Sustainability: Contribute to Argyll and Bute’s climate goals and local green priorities.
Community Benefit: Ensure continued operation of a vital public facility by improving affordability and efficiency.
Reputation & Education: Position Atlantis as a community leader in sustainability and energy-conscious development, potentially inspiring others.
4. How long will your project run for?
The project is expected to begin in early 2026 and take approximately 3–6 months to complete, depending on contractor availability and procurement of specialised equipment.
