The sports centre, 14 years later, is undergoing another major overhaul today, and is due to re-open in January 2015.

Barrhead Sports Centre’s £1.5million revamp has been officially opened.

A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the occasion by deputy minister for sport, Rhona Brankin.

The minister was joined by Alastair Dempster, chairman of sportscotland, which helped fund the project to the tune of £800,000, along with councillors and representatives from community organisations.

Speaking at the opening, Rhona Brankin, said: “Sport is very much part of Scotland’s culture. The Executive’s philosophy of ‘sport for all’ recognises the benefits of keeping mobile and fit throughout life and seeks to provide a framework in which everyone – whatever their age, ability, culture or disability, can enjoy the benefits sport can bring.

“We need to provide high quality facilities, which are accessible and affordable. Barrhead Sports Centre is an excellent example of that kind of facility.

“The people of East Renfrewshire have a facility of which they can be rightly proud of.” Alastair Dempster from sportscotland, was impressed by the face-lift of the 25 year-old building.

He said: “We are delighted to have been able to work in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council to refurbish Barrhead Sports Centre.” Speaking afterwards, Councillor Alan Lafferty, convener of community and leisure, commented: “The launch of Barrhead Sports Centre was a great success. Rhona Brankin, MSP, commended the council and sportscotland for working together to provide the people of Barrhead with an excellent sport and leisure facility to keep them fit and healthy for life.”