Galashiels Academy: Key Info & FAQs

CLICK HERE for the new Galashiels Academy venue page with provisional timetables.

We’re delighted to share some exciting updates about the relocation of Galashiels Swimming Pool to its new home within the Galashiels Academy campus and the associated community sports facilities.

This move is part of a wider development that will significantly enhance local sporting and leisure facilities. The new, modern pool will offer a greatly improved swimming experience, with extended opening hours and more opportunities for both lane and public swimming. The facility will remain dedicated to our customers, while continuing to support local schools during their scheduled sessions.

Bookings and Access
Our current booking system will remain in place. To ensure availability during busy times, we encourage members to book in advance. However, where space allows, customers are welcome to drop in. This flexible approach is designed to make swimming more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Phased Development
The new sports complex is being delivered in phases:

• Phase One includes the opening of the school building, swimming pool, and indoor sports facilities.
• Once operational, the existing Galashiels Swimming Pool will be demolished to make way for additional parking and the construction of outdoor sports facilities, including pitches and a running track.

Parking Information
During the transition period, parking at the new pool will be limited. A small number of accessible spaces will be available, and we kindly ask customers to use nearby on-street parking where possible or travel on foot.

 

Galashiels Academy – Public Facility Q&A

When is the facility opening to the public?
The official handover between contractors and SBC has now taken place. Although there is lots still to do, the expected opening date for the sports facilities is  Tuesday 6 January 2026.

Is there going to be parking at the school?
No.

There are 5 blue badge spaces at the front entrance, but no other parking or drop-off. A new car park will be built on the site of the existing pool, however this is expected to take around 6 months. Please plan ahead and allow extra time for travel.

Are the school and the public using the same entrance?
Yes, there is one main entrance, with a split reception area—one for Live Borders and one for the school.

What facilities are available in the new building?

• 25m, 6-lane swimming pool with shallow and deep ends
• Mixed changing village
• Spectator seating on poolside
• Hoist access for pool entry
• Hydrotherapy pool with accessible changing and pool hoists
• 4-court and 2-court games halls
• Fully equipped gym

Is the swimming pool a school pool?
No, it is a public facility located within the school campus. Schools will book sessions, similar to current arrangements.

Can I use my mobile phone or devices in the sports / pool areas?
To protect children and vulnerable individuals, a no photography policy will be in place. Please refrain from using mobile devices in these areas.

Will the facility have the same opening hours?
No, opening hours are being extended at weekends and on selected mornings. A provisional opening hour timetable is available on the website HERE.

Will my child’s swimming lessons be affected?
Yes, some changes have been made:

• Additional lessons, including weekends are being added
• Adjusted times to avoid school traffic
• Existing customers have already been contacted, however if you have any questions please contact your lesson co Ordinator Swimming Coordinator with specific details.

When can I access the gym?  (provisional times)

• Monday–Thursday: 6:30am–8:30am & 3:45pm–8:45pm
• Friday: 6:30am–8:00am & 2pm–8:45pm
• Saturday & Sunday: 8.30am–3pm

Do I have to book to use the new facility?

• Gym and pool: Booking is not required but strongly recommended due to high demand.
• Sports halls: Booking is required, please fill in our booking enquiry form HERE.

How old do I have to be to use the gym?

• Unsupervised access: 16+
• Supervised sessions: Available from 12 years

When is a timetable going to be available?
A provisional time table is available HERE

When do you expect the bookings to go live?
 Monday 5th January.

I have queries about hall bookings ( I am an existing user at the Academy)
All existing users are being contacted directly around their previous booking. If you don’t receive an email by 16th December please email galaacademy@liveborders.co.uk

I want to know more information around the hydrotherapy pool?
Please complete the booking enquiry form HERE in the first instance.

Once we open there will be an opportunity to come in and have a tour.

I have a person who would benefit from the hydrotherapy pool but I need to know that it would meet their needs.
We will be offering a full walk around of all sports & aquatic areas on the weekend of opening 10-11 January from 10:00 – 14:00 so people can view the facilities. CLICK HERE for more info.

If this is not suitable, there will be other dates available – please email galaacademy@liveborders.org.uk

 

We look forward to welcoming you to this modern, accessible space that will serve our community for years to come. Thank you for your continued support.