Helensburgh's new waterfront leisure centre is on course to open next year, council bosses have insisted.

Work on the £22 million project at the pierhead began in late August 2020, and a year on from the start of construction, Argyll and Bute Council has issued a progress report updating residents - and visitors - on the state of play so far.

The council published a press release on July 30, 2020 stating that the new building would open to the public in August 2022.

The council's latest progress report doesn't specifically mention August of next year, however, stating only that the facility is "on track to open in 2022".

The authority says the main building is now structurally complete, "with the external Lomond stone blockwork and glazing installed, there are new flood defences for the town and landscaping is well under way".

In June the senior council officials in charge of the project admitted there was a possibility that supply problems in the construction industry could push the scheme beyond its £22m budget.

A further update is expected to go before the council's Helensburgh and Lomond area committee at its next meeting, scheduled for Thursday, September 16.

When it’s complete, the centre wioll include new swimming and studio pools, a gym and cafe, with fully accessible facilities including 'pool pod' access for wheelchair users and anyone with mobility issues, along with a moveable floor in the studio pool and a Changing Places toilet.

Cathal Heron, regional director for the project's construction contractor, Heron Bros, said: “Heron Bros is extremely pleased with the progress made to date as we mark such a key milestone for the project.

"The celebration represents a high point not only for the project build, but for the entire project team, who have worked so effectively together in making such impressive progress.”

Helensburgh Central councillor Gary Mulvaney, the authority's depute leader and policy lead for financial services and major projects, said: “This development not only offers a first class facility for residents and visitors, it provides vital skills and training to the next generation, and support for the local economy now when it needs it.

"With ongoing Covid restrictions, it has taken a huge team effort from the council, Heron Bros and our internal and external design consultants to get us to this important milestone.

"It is remarkable to think of the progress to date considering the back office staff behind the Waterfront Development are working remotely to deliver the project.

"The progress achieved in the face of considerable challenge is a testament to the power of partnership and professionalism. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

The project cost of £22.3m includes £5m from the UK Government's Libor Fund and £100,000 from SportScotland.