Centre takes water switch plunge

The centre estimates it will save thousands on its utility bills each year

A leisure centre in Coatbridge has become one of the first businesses in the country to switch to a private water supplier.

New rules mean businesses and charities no longer have to get their water supply from Scottish Water.

Management at the Time Capsule said the switch to English company STC Energy would save them thousands of pounds.

The centre has also dug a borehole in the car park in the hope of being allowed to source its own water.

The popular facility has two large swimming pools and an ice rink.

Sammy McClung, general manager, said the centre decided to make the switch after its water bills increased from £35,000 to £114,000 over a five-year period.

He said: "We wanted to make efficiency savings so we could put money back into the facility.

"We've entered into an agreement for our gas, electricity and water. The water is only one side of it. With the gas and electric we have been guaranteed savings of £130,000 per year.

"So you can take it that between the three utilities the Time Capsule will be saving £136,000 per year."