Transforming Atlantis’ function room to create a fully accessible changing space, ensuring dignified facilities for disabled users and enhancing inclusion across our centre.
Estimated Price
120000
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 want to create a fully accessible changing facility at Atlantis Leisure by reconfiguring our existing function room. This change will provide a dignified, modern, and private space for users with complex physical access needs — something that is currently lacking in our centre.
The project involves:
Reconfiguring the function room’s footprint to make space for the new changing facility
Installing a fully equipped Changing Places-style room, with tracking hoists, adult-size changing bench, height-adjustable sink, non-slip flooring, and emergency call system
Relocating any displaced function room capacity elsewhere in the building
The facility will be available to all eligible users during centre opening hours and promoted in partnership with disability organisations.
2. Why is your project needed?
Despite being a leading community leisure centre, Atlantis currently lacks an accessible changing facility that meets the needs of people with profound and multiple disabilities. This is a significant barrier to participation, especially in swimming and gym activities.
We have received repeated feedback from carers, schools, and individuals highlighting the absence of such a space. Without it, many people cannot access our services at all, which is contrary to our values and community mission.
This project helps us respond to clear local need and aligns strongly with:
The Equalities Act 2010 by removing physical barriers to access
Argyll and Bute’s Health and Social Care Strategic Plan, promoting dignity, inclusion, and equality
Scotland’s National Performance Framework, particularly the outcome: “We respect, protect and fulfil human rights.”
3. What positive changes will your project bring about?
Inclusion & Dignity: People who currently can’t use our services due to a lack of facilities will now be able to participate.
Increased Usage: Carers, disability support organisations, schools, and individuals will gain regular access to Atlantis’ full range of services.
Long-Term Equality Impact: Lays the groundwork for ongoing inclusion across all Atlantis activities.
Health & Wellbeing: Enables disabled people to enjoy physical activity in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.
4. How long will your project run for?
We expect to begin work in late Autumn 2025, with completion targeted for early Spring 2026. Most of the work is internal and can be completed in under 3 months. Contractors will be appointed as soon as funding is confirmed.
