Opportunity & Our Vision

What have we got?
A popular well-loved facility for Southwell and District.

At Southwell Leisure Centre we have a 10m training pool, sauna, squash courts, sports hall for team games and classes, 5-a-side football pitch, popular gym with cardio, weights and resistance equipment, 25 bike cycle studio, well attended classes for all ages including tumble tots, drum fitness, yoga, pilates, badminton, zumba, table tennis. The Sports Hall is used for the regular monthly meeting for Southwell U3A, who have over 800 members.

Our opportunity

Southwell Leisure Centre Trust now have an incredible opportunity to create an amazing community hub for our town. Community-owned and run leisure centres offer a multitude of benefits which positively impact both individuals and the broader community. Economically, they keep revenue within the local area, supporting jobs and promoting economic growth, while often operating more cost-effectively than privately or publicly run centres. Socially, these centres foster a strong sense of community pride and engagement, providing volunteer opportunities and promoting social inclusion by offering programs for diverse groups. This should be exactly what we are looking at for Southwell Leisure Centre.

Our vision is big and ambitious

We want to create a Leisure Centre that aims to be more than just a place for exercise or recreation; we want it to become a hub for social interaction, personal development, and collective well-being.
We want a centre, which addresses the following areas:

Health & Wellness

Southwell Leisure Centre (SLC) promotes physical and mental well-being through a range of activities, including swimming, fitness classes, sports leagues, and wellness workshops. It provides access to affordable leisure services and resources to
support healthy lifestyles.

Community Engagement

SLC serves as a focal point for community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among residents. Community members have a say in its management and programming, ensuring that it reflects their interests and priorities.

Collaboration & Partnerships

The Leisure Centre collaborates with local organisations, businesses, and the Town Council to maximise its impact and resources. It leverages partnerships to expand its offerings, secure funding, and address community needs more effectively.

Education & Skills Development

Beyond recreation, SLC offers opportunities for learning and skill development. It hosts workshops, classes, and certifications in areas such as first aid, CPR, lifeguarding, and fitness instruction.

Youth Empowerment

Recognising the importance of youth engagement, the Leisure Centre offers programmes and activities specifically designed for young people. It provides opportunities for development and volunteering, empowering our younger generation to make positive contributions to their community. SLC offers work experience and apprenticeships to the younger generations, growing our own team whilst succession planning for the long-term future of the Leisure Centre.

Accessible Facilities

Ensuring accessibility for all, the Leisure Centre will provide barrier-free facilities and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. It will offer adaptive equipment, assistive technologies, and inclusive programming to ensure that everyone can participate fully.

Inclusivity

SLC welcomes everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability. It offers programs and facilities that cater to diverse interests and needs, ensuring that no one feels excluded.

Environmental Sustainability

SLC operates with a commitment to sustainability, minimising its environmental impact through energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, and eco-friendly initiatives. Investigating opportunities to incorporate features like green spaces, solar panels, e - charging points and water-saving technologies.

Cultural Enrichment

Celebrating the diversity of the community, the centre showcases cultural events, performances, and exhibitions. It provides spaces for local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents and connect with audiences.

Continuous Improvement

Committed to excellence, SLC regularly solicits feedback from community members and stakeholders to identify areas for improvement. It invests in staff training, facility upgrades, and programme enhancements to ensure that it remains a vibrant and valuable resource for the community. With a medium to long term goal of developing an expanded Leisure Centre with new facilities that meets the need of the current and future population of Southwell and surrounding areas.

Overall, a community-run Leisure Centre serves as a catalyst for social cohesion, personal growth, and collective well-being, enriching the lives of community members and contributing to the vitality of Southwell and the surrounding villages.