THIS is the logo that will become synonymous with Irvine’s £20million Portal Leisure Centre.

North Ayrshire Council has revealed the new branding for the Portal, which will adorn the entrance of the site as well as across the inside of the building.

This week’s official unveiling came as the eagerly-anticipated opening of the facility draws ever closer.

Various events were organised by the council to draw inspiration from the public and get a flavour of how both the young and old viewed the new facility.

And NAC insist the design captures the modern futuristic appeal of the Portal - whilst providing a nod to the maritime traditions of Irvine’s past.

After years of major work, the centre will finally open on January 27 as Irvine begins to say its final farewells to the iconic Magnum Leisure Centre.

The facilities on offer at the Portal include: 

  • A 25m x 6 lane swimming pool, teaching/warm up pool with changing facilities and spectator seating
  • A six court multi-use sports hall for all indoor sports
  • Community facilities
  • Fitness suite and multi-use studio
  • Cafe

In terms of the logo’s design, the ‘R’ in the Portal is said to represent the River Irvine which became the natural choice to become the icon for new logo and brand.

Irvine Times:

The shape of the ‘R’ mirrors the course of the river which runs through the heart of the town.

Its line starts where the Portal lines up with the river and ends where it meets the Garnock.

The flow and curve gives movement, evocative of Irvine being a forward thinking aspirational town.

Councillor Louise McPhater said this week: “We are all thrilled with the final design as it is eye-catching, modern and has a real message behind it.

“It captures the very essence of the Portal and what it will mean to Irvine and its communities for years to come.”

She added: “The facility is now close to completion and the brand unveiling just builds up the excitement even further.”

The brand was designed by Irvine-based firm Visualize This.