Edinburgh Leisure has launched its first impact report since 2015, which shows progress in the face of extreme budget pressures and soaring demand.

There has been continued growth in customer visits – now exceeding 5.6 million a year across its 75 sites – while the Active Communities programme supported more than 12,500 individuals.

Referrals to Active Communities – which provides free and low cost opportunities for physical activity – were up 41 per cent from pre-pandemic levels. Next year a further £1 million will be needed from external funding to deliver the same level of support and grow the programme to meet increasing demand.

Although Edinburgh is one of the wealthiest cities in Scotland it has some of the greatest levels of inequality. There's a 14 year gap in life expectancy between the most affluent and most deprived communities in the city. Before the pandemic around 20 per cent of people were living in poverty and the past four years have exacerbated the inequalities.

Jen Holland, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure, says: “This year we've faced extreme pressure on our budget, but we remain committed to improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the city. Edinburgh Leisure is addressing the growing need for affordable physical activity in the city by providing services at reduced or no cost to those facing barriers to leading active lives.

“By working closely with our partners, including the City of Edinburgh Council, the NHS, and voluntary organisations such as Paths for All and Alzheimer’s Scotland, Edinburgh Leisure is helping to reduce the social and economic costs of ill health and inactivity.

“As demand for our services increases and economic pressures on the health sector mount, these partnerships remain vital. Through collaboration, we continue to align with national and regional goals, promoting sport, physical activity, health, and inclusion across the city.”

The leisure operator also had cause for celebration. The historic Warrender Swim Centre, known for producing elite swimmers, was reopened having been closed since the pandemic, it now has 1,600 members and more casual users. Gym refurbishments also took place at Leith Victoria Swim Centre, Gracemount Leisure Centre and Glenogle Swim Centre.

A Green Plan was also launched this year, based around four themes: waste, energy, active travel and green spaces. Cost savings of £100,000 have been achieved by solar panel use. Ainsle Park Leisure Centre generated two-thirds of the centre’s energy on-site and Dumbrae Leisure Centre cut its carbon emissions by 26 per cent on the year before.

Edinburgh Leisure will be listening to customers as it develops its five-year strategic plan in 2024 and 2025. Aims include working collaboratively to meet the needs of the city, especially in relation to poverty and inequality; implement the Physical Activity and Sport Strategy for Edinburgh 2024-2034; deliver an enhanced customer experience and meet net zero ambitions.

Edinburgh Leisure is also the first leisure trust to be affiliated with Hyrox. On the 14 October, a new hybrid gym and official Hyrox Affiliate Training Club is being launched at Meadowbank Sports Centre. Evolve Meadowbank will feature all the equipment, training and classes required to train towards hybrid competitions such as Hyrox and Deadly Dozen, including coach-led and class-based sessions.