Leisure centre visits across Ashfield surge over last five years
Leisure visits have increased significantly around Ashfield over the last five years
Visits to leisure centres across the Ashfield district has surged over the last five years, according to new figures released this week.
The figures show there has been a 61 per cent jump in visits annually with participation increasing from 1.08 million visits in 2021 to more than 1.73 million last year.
The increase in visitor numbers follows Ashfield District Council’s contract agreement with Everyone Active in 2021 for the leisure provider to run centres across the district.
John Bennett, Ashfield District Council’s Executive Director for Place, said: “This partnership has led to significant health and wellbeing benefits for our residents. Each year we have seen more and more people get involved in our centres and make the most of all they have to offer, as well as enjoy the many events they play host to.
“The council has invested heavily in improving the centres. In 2020, we refurbished and extended the fitness suite at Lammas, we have carried out refurbishment work at Hucknall and most recently we refurbished and extended the fitness facilities and soft play at Kirkby Leisure Centre.
“These upgrades have ensured our centres continue to evolve to meet the needs of our residents. The health and happiness of our residents is a priority for us as a council and this partnership has given more people the tools they need to lead a healthier lifestyle.”
The research also shows more people have embraced what the area’s leisure centres have to offer on a regular basis with 9,220 fitness and health members and 3,384 young people in Everyone Active’s swim school programme.
Simon Morgan, Everyone Active’s area contract manager, said: “We are enormously proud to serve local communities in Ashfield, providing the state-of-the-art facilities and activities that inspire people to improve their health and wellbeing. No matter what your age, interests or ability, there is an activity for you at your local leisure centre.
“We look forward to further strengthening our excellent partnership with the council and ensuring the future of leisure in Ashfield remains bright for many years to come.”