The brand-new £330,000 state-of-the-art facility has been created in response to growing demand for gymnastics across West Lothian, with participation across our venues increasing by more than 170% in recent years. The new arena provides a dedicated home for gymnastics in West Lothian and creates even more opportunities for local people to get active, develop new skills and progress within the sport.
The launch event was packed with excitement as young gymnasts and their families explored the new arena, watched impressive gymnastics demonstrations and took part in an exclusive workshop and choreography session led by Shannon.
Shannon made history in 2022 as the first Scottish woman to win a Commonwealth Games medal in artistic gymnastics, winning bronze on vault at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games. During the event, young gymnasts also took part in a Q&A session where Shannon shared insights into her career, training journey and experiences competing on the international stage.
As a proud West Lothian local, Shannon's visit made the day even more memorable, inspiring the next generation of gymnasts to dream big and pursue their own sporting ambitions.
Our new Gymnastics Arena features specialist equipment, dedicated learning zones and flexible activity spaces designed to support participants of all ages and abilities, from beginners taking their first steps in gymnastics through to competitive athletes.
Karen Pearson-McGrath, Sports & Services Operations Manager, said:
"Seeing the new Gymnastics Arena officially launched and filled with so much energy and excitement has been fantastic.
"Demand for gymnastics across West Lothian has grown significantly in recent years, and this new facility allows us to create more opportunities for local people to get active, develop new skills and progress within the sport.
"We were delighted to welcome West Lothian's very own Commonwealth bronze medallist, Shannon Archer, to help launch the arena.
"Having an athlete of Shannon's calibre inspiring young gymnasts and sharing her experiences made the event incredibly special and memorable."
Shannon added:
"It's been amazing to visit the new gymnastics arena and meet so many enthusiastic young gymnasts. Having facilities like this in the local community is so important for helping young people build confidence, stay active and enjoy the sport.
"As someone from West Lothian myself, I am proud to support the launch and hopefully inspire the next generation.
"I started in a gymnastics club in facilities very similar to this one, and with the support of my coaches I went on to achieve my dream of winning a Commonwealth medal, so there's every chance this arena could help produce future champions from West Lothian."
With classes already proving hugely popular, the new Gymnastics Arena will help even more children, young people and adults discover gymnastics, build confidence and enjoy being active in a dedicated, modern environment.
