Dewars to remain jag hub into the new year
Leisure centre earmarked for use until at least January
The Dewars Centre in Perth is to remain in use as a vaccination hub until the New Year at the earliest.
The hall, which houses the indoor bowling and ice rink, has been earmarked for health service use until the start of January.
Talks have been going on behind the scenes over the past few weeks to decide the building’s role in immunising the public going forward.
Efforts continue to ensure first and second vaccine injections are had by all sections of society with take-up reportedly slowing down since mid-summer.
The news comes as speculation grows about a third booster jab for vulnerable residents while a massive flu vaccination programme is also about to get up and running.
Other long term vaccination venues are at Live Active Atholl in Pitlochry and Blairgowrie Town Hall.
These were chosen because they provide “good access with local parking, a safe operating environment, security and crucially capacity to deliver vaccines on a significant scale”.
A statement from Paul Cromwell, CEO of Live Active Leisure, said: “Discussions regarding the future use of Dewars Centre as a vaccination centre have been ongoing with Perth and Kinross Council and the NHS in recent weeks.
“We have now received confirmation that the bowling hall will be required until the end of the year, to continue to support the delivery of the vaccination programme to our communities.”
The news has come as a blow to some sports clubs who had hoped to get access to the facility once more. The ladies section of Perth Bowling Club contacted the PA to complain their lack of access meant they would have to withdraw from the Scottish League.
Helen Winter, the ladies secretary, said the club had asked if vaccinations could take place upstairs but had been told by LAL that the entirety of the Dewars building was needed for the next four months.
“We understand from LAL the whole of the Strathearn Hall (bowling hall) is required as a vaccination hub until the end of the year,” she said.
Doug Lambert, vice president of seniors section, said the biggest fear was if some members decided not to come back for the short period available, the club would not get them back for the following season, contributing to an existing decline in the Perth membership.
In reply to the club’s concern that with no home rink to offer at matches they could not take part in the league this season, Mr Cromwell wrote to suggest a late start to competitions.
He told the PA: “The Dewars team is currently pulling together a plan to try and restart bowling from January 2022 and we are looking at all options to salvage at least some of the season and get customers back enjoying their sporting activity, we know how important this and the return to ‘normality’ is for everyone.
“I appreciate that this disruption to bowling will be disappointing, however, I know that our customers recognise the vital role that Dewars Centre continues to provide in tackling COVID-19.”
LAL offered to waive membership fees for this bowling season and offer a £25 refund on last year’s fees.