Tag: Edinburgh Leisure

Next steps set out for Portobello Swim Centre refurbishment following strong public support

Edinburgh Leisure has set out the next steps in the refurbishment of Portobello Swim Centre following a major public consultation which showed overwhelming support for investment in the much-loved community facility.

The consultation, carried out independently during May and June 2026, gathered views from customers, user groups and local residents. It found that 91% of respondents support investment in the centre, while 95% recognise it as an important community asset. 

Taking this feedback into account, Edinburgh Leisure and the City of Edinburgh Council will now move forward with the next stage of design development. The design team will use the consultation findings to finalise a design for approval, with a focus on improving facilities while protecting the character, heritage and community value of the iconic building.

A design shaped by the community

The next phase of the project will focus on developing a design that reflects what customers said matters most. This includes considering:

  • How changing facilities can be upgraded to better meet customer needs
  • Improvements to layout, cleanliness, accessibility and family provision
  • The importance of retaining the building’s unique character, including its natural light and sea views

The consultation findings will now be reviewed in detail by the design team as they develop the final design for approval.

Moving into the next phase

The project will now move into further design development and approval stages, with updated designs and visuals shared with the public once the design has been progressed.

Subject to final approvals, the next steps will include:

  • Finalising a design for approval and securing the necessary consents
  • Appointing contractors
  • Confirming timelines for refurbishment works 

Edinburgh Leisure has also committed to providing regular updates throughout the project, with 95% of consultation respondents stating they wanted to be kept informed as plans progress.

Supporting customers through change

The consultation highlighted that temporary closure of the centre is the biggest concern for customers, with more than 80% indicating they would be affected by any period of closure.

Edinburgh Leisure will develop a comprehensive customer support plan ahead of the refurbishment, including access to alternative facilities, swim lesson arrangements and flexible membership options to minimise disruption wherever possible.

A long-term investment in Portobello

The refurbishment aims to ensure Portobello Swim Centre continues to serve the community for generations to come, improving the quality of facilities while maintaining the character and heritage that make it one of Edinburgh’s most valued leisure venues.

Claire Rusack, Operations Director at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “We would like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation and shared their views.

“The message from the community was clear – people strongly support investment in Portobello Swim Centre, but they also want to protect the features that make it such a special place.

“The design team will now use that feedback to finalise a design for approval. This will ensure the next stage focuses on improving changing facilities, accessibility and the overall customer experience, while taking account of the natural light, sea views and heritage character that customers told us they value most. 

“Portobello Swim Centre is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic leisure facilities and this investment will help safeguard its future, ensuring it continues to support active, healthy communities for many years to come.”

A City of Edinburgh Council spokesperson said: “Portobello Swim Centre is an important part of Edinburgh’s sporting and cultural heritage, and we welcome the high level of public interest in shaping its future.

“The consultation has provided clear and valuable feedback which will help inform the next stage of design development.

“We’re committed to working closely with our partners and the local community to breathe new life into this much-loved landmark space in a way that protects the building’s historic character while creating modern, high-quality facilities for future generations.”

Edinburgh Leisure launches free summer sports days for children

Children aged 5-12 can enjoy free hands-on sports sessions at Meadowbank Sports Centre and Drumbrae Leisure Centre this July

Edinburgh Leisure is inviting children across the city to get active this summer with Go for Gold Sports Days, two free events taking place at Meadowbank Sports Centre and Drumbrae Leisure Centre on 30 and 31 July.

Designed for children aged 5–12, the events will offer a range of fun, hands-on sports sessions and active challenges, giving young people the chance to try something new, build confidence and enjoy being active during the school holidays.

Go for Gold is funded by sportscotland’s Summer of Sport 2026 and forms part of a wider effort to make sport and physical activity more accessible, helping more children experience the physical, social and wellbeing benefits of being active.

Sessions will include activities inspired by Commonwealth Games sports, with Meadowbank Sports Centre bringing added sporting heritage as a former two-time Commonwealth Games host venue.

Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “Go for Gold is a brilliant opportunity for children to get into the spirit of sport this summer, try something new and have fun in a welcoming environment.

“With activities inspired by Commonwealth Games sports, the events are a great way for children to enjoy being active, discover new interests and see what’s on offer at Edinburgh Leisure.”

Families can view the full list of Go for Gold events and register for free at: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/go-for-gold/

Saughton Project to Strengthen Clubs and Athletics Provision in West Edinburgh

Major upgrade to protect and enhance athletics facilities

A major improvement project at Saughton Sports Complex will help safeguard athletics provision in west Edinburgh and create a stronger future for local clubs, schools and community users.

Work to resurface the athletics track and upgrade key field facilities, ensuring the venue meets UK Athletics standards,was scheduled to begin yesterday (Monday 8 June). Funded by the City of Edinburgh Council, the investment will support the long-term future of a site that plays a vital role in the city’s athletics network.

Scottish Athletics has identified Edinburgh as one of eight priority regions in its national facilities strategy, underlining the importance of protecting and improving provision in this part of the city.

Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: “I am delighted that we are committing major investment into transforming the athletics track and field facilities. Providing these spaces for sport and physical activity is essential for communities in the west of the city.

These upgrades will create lasting benefits for local athletes, athletics clubs, schools, and residents who rely on the venue. The project will also encourage wider participation and give more residents an opportunity to enjoy the physical, social and wellbeing benefits that being active can bring.”

Cathy Findlay, Edinburgh Leisure Sports Pitch Manager, said:“This project is vital for athletics in west Edinburgh. By improving the track and key field facilities, we are protecting an important base for local clubs, supporting athlete development at all levels, and creating more inclusive opportunities to take part.

“These improvements will help ensure Saughton continues to serve local people well for years to come.”

For Saughton’s two core athletics clubs, Corstorphine AAC and Harmeny AC, the project will secure access to a high-quality local training and competition base. Supporting around 775 athletes and delivering approximately 50 hours of activity each week, the clubs make Saughton a key part of the development pathway for athletes of all ages and abilities.

The improvements will also help clubs retain members, support growth and strengthen the venue’s ability to host accredited regional competitions.

David Arnott, President of Corstorphine AAC, said: “Saughton is entering a really positive new phase.

“Edinburgh Leisure has a clear commitment to improving the track and facilities in ways that will make a real difference to the people who use them. It feels like we are now moving forward together, and that gives us real confidence for the future.”

Craig Stewart, Board Member at Harmeny AC, said: “This investment in athletics facilities gives Harmeny AC the certainty to move forward with plans to upgrade our own equipment and facilities, as well as invest in our coaching team.

“In turn, this will allow us to welcome more young athletes to training and help reduce our waiting list.”

The project will also strengthen the inclusive reach of athletics, supporting the ongoing work of both clubs to widen participation and create welcoming environments for people from a broad range of backgrounds and abilities.

Through initiatives such as Scottish Athletics’ Club Together programme, the clubs support underrepresented groups, including people moving from inactivity into sport, disabled athletes, refugees and those living in areas of socio-economic disadvantage—helping to create accessible pathways into athletics.

Saughton’s location further enhances its role as a community hub, with strong transport links making it easily accessible to a large and diverse local population.

Overall, the project will help protect a valued athletics venue, strengthen local clubs and widen opportunities for people across Edinburgh to take part in the sport.

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to helping people lead more active, healthy lives. With 75 sport, leisure and school venues across the city, it creates opportunities for everyone to get active and stay active.

Edinbuurgh Leisure: Seriously Social

From life-changing recoveries to community impact: Edinburgh Leisure showcases its role through Seriously Social campaign:

As part of the UK-wide #SeriouslySocial campaign this June, Edinburgh Leisure is showcasing how it puts people above profit every day, sharing real stories that show how community leisure transforms lives across Edinburgh.

Led by Community Leisure UK, the campaign runs from Monday 8 to Saturday 13 June and highlights the vital role charitable leisure trusts play in supporting healthier, more connected and inclusive communities across the UK.

Reflecting this shared purpose, Edinburgh Leisure will spotlight five key themes: health and wellbeing, the community, employment and skills, inclusion, and the environment. Each is brought to life through the experiences of the people and communities it supports.

Supporting a healthier, more resilient city

Edinburgh Leisure plays a key role in improving health and wellbeing across the city by reducing barriers to physical activity and creating inclusive opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.

As the largest provider of sport and leisure facilities in Edinburgh, it creates opportunities for people at every stage of life to be active, connect with others and build healthier habits within their communities.

Real stories behind the impact

The Seriously Social campaign shares a series of real-life stories that demonstrate this impact in action.

One example is Jennifer, a participant in Edinburgh Leisure’s community-based falls prevention programme, Balanced Life. After a broken back and serious illness left her relying on a walker, the programme helped her rebuild strength and confidence step by step, leading to a moment that she thought she might have lost: picking up her grandchildren from school.

At Gracemount Leisure Centre, Edinburgh Leisure’s swimming and multisport sessions for children with additional support needs have transformed weekends for Danny, Andor and their families. With consistent support and tailored activities, the sessions have built confidence and created space for both participation and respite.

These are just a few examples from across the week. The campaign brings together a wider range of stories, highlighting the many ways Edinburgh Leisure supports communities, from health and wellbeing, connection and confidence to careers and environmental action.

You can explore all stories and follow the campaign at 

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/seriously-social/

Leading with purpose

Jen Holland, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure, said: “What makes Edinburgh Leisure special is the impact we have on people’s everyday lives. These stories show that it’s not just about being active, it’s about rebuilding confidence, creating connections and opening up opportunities.

“Whether it’s someone regaining their independence, a young person taking their first steps into employment, or communities coming together to support each other, this is what putting people above profit really looks like using the power of sport and physical activity.

“Seriously Social is a great opportunity to highlight these moments and the impact Edinburgh Leisure makes across the city every single day.”

A sector driven by social purpose

Kirsty Cumming, CEO of Community Leisure UK, said: “Our members serve everyone in their communities regardless of age or ability.

“They are places where arts can power mental wellbeing, physical activity can create social connections and where health programmes meet community need. Seriously Social is a campaign that focuses on our sector’s greatest USP, our social heart.

“As social enterprises and charities, they put people above profit. Reinvesting money for the betterment of society. And that is why we developed Seriously Social, to celebrate the difference they make.”

Community invited to help shape the future of Portobello Swim Centre

The City of Edinburgh Council and Edinburgh Leisure are inviting local residents, customers, and community groups to take part in a public consultation on proposals to redevelop Portobello Swim Centre, one of Edinburgh’s most distinctive and well‑loved heritage buildings.

The consultation will give the public an opportunity to comment on proposed improvements to the Category A listed facility, including internal reconfiguration to improve layouts, accessibility, and customer experience, while protecting key heritage features such as the pools and Turkish Baths.

Feedback from the consultation will help inform the final design and investment decisions for the centre.

Since the initial draft designs were first shared through the City of Edinburgh Council tender portal, the project team has been developing the proposals further. The City of Edinburgh Council and Edinburgh Leisure are excited to showcase how the designs have evolved in response to early feedback from local clubs and customers, ensuring community voices are helping to shape what comes next.

The proposals also include new, much‑needed public toilets with access from outside the centre, helping local residents and visitors enjoy Portobello beach and promenade with better comfort and convenience.

As part of the consultation, a series of community drop‑in sessions will be held at Portobello Town Hall, giving people the chance to view the proposals, ask questions of the project team and share their views in person.

These sessions will take place on the following dates:

  • Tuesday 26 May: 10am – 12pm and 6pm – 8pm
  • Monday 1 June: 10am – 12pm and 6pm – 8pm

An online survey will also be available for those who prefer to provide feedback digitally.

The proposal, being delivered in partnership between the City of Edinburgh Council and Edinburgh Leisure, is intended to support the long-term future of Portobello Swim Centre and the communities it serves.

Any future refurbishment would require a temporary closure of the centre while major works are carried out, and the consultation will also explore how any impact on customers and community groups could be managed.

Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener of City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Portobello Swim Centre is a much‑loved local landmark and an important community asset.

“This consultation is a vital opportunity for residents, users and local groups to help shape proposals that balance the building’s historic character with the need for modern, accessible facilities.”

Jen Holland, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Leisure, said: “We know how important Portobello Swim Centre is to its community.

“We’re committed to listening carefully to feedback through this consultation and ensuring that any future changes reflect what matters most to customers, clubs, and local residents, while securing the long‑term sustainability of this unique facility.”

Details of the consultation, and how to take part in the online survey, will be shared on the Edinburgh Leisure website and at Portobello Swim Centre in the coming weeks.

£0 Joining Fee This May: Edinburgh Leisure encourages the capital to Keep Moving and Keep Going 

After trying new ways to move this spring, Edinburgh Leisure is inviting the city to keep going. Throughout May, new customers can join Edinburgh Leisure with a £0 joining fee, making it easier than ever to turn new routines into lasting habits.

The limited‑time offer removes a key barrier to commitment, encouraging people who have already started getting active – or are thinking about starting – to make movement part of everyday life.

The campaign follows April’s popular Spring Pass, which gave Edinburgh residents the freedom to explore gyms, pools and fitness classes without pressure. Now, the focus moves from trying things out to staying with what works.

Keep What You Started 

Whether it’s energetic gym sessions, swimming lengths, group fitness classes or a slower, wellness‑led routine, Edinburgh Leisure memberships are designed to be flexible. Members can move in different ways across the week and adapt their routine as life and energy levels change. There’s no single “right” way to be active. Edinburgh Leisure supports real people, real schedules and real lives. 

Designed for Real Life

Starting something new is one thing – keeping it going is often harder. Busy schedules, rising costs and uncertainty about commitment can all get in the way.

By removing the joining fee, Edinburgh Leisure is making it easier for people to maintain momentum and build routines that fit around work, family and everyday demands. Memberships include access to gyms, swimming, fitness classes and social sports across venues city‑wide, giving members the freedom to change how they move without starting again. 

Supporting Activity Across the City 

The £0 joining fee offer supports participation across Edinburgh Leisure’s network of venues, including Meadowbank Sports Centre, Ainslie Park Leisure Centre and the Royal Commonwealth Pool, helping more people stay active in ways that work for them.

The £0 joining fee offer is available for a limited time throughout May.


To join or find out more, visit: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/may-membership-offer/ 

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to helping people lead more active, healthy lives. With more than 75 sport, leisure and school venues across the city, it creates opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to get active and stay active.

Edinburgh Leisure launches £20 Spring Pass offering two weeks of Unlimited Fitness

A flexible way for Edinburgh residents to dip into gyms, pools and fitness classes this April – and discover movement that fits real life.

Edinburgh Leisure is inviting people across the city to step into spring with its Spring Pass – two weeks of unlimited access to gyms, pools and fitness classes for just £20. 

Available to buy from the Edinburgh Leisure website until 30 April, the Spring Pass is ideal for anyone looking to move more but unsure where to start, getting back into a routine, or simply wanting the freedom to try different activities without a long-term commitment. It’s an easy way to explore and find what feels good. 

A Stress‑Free Way to Start Moving

The pressure to have a plan, a goal, or the confidence to walk into a fitness space already knowing what you’re doing can feel intimidating. 

The Spring Pass lifts that pressure. It gives you the freedom to move in whatever way suits your day – a quick swim before work, a weekend gym session or your first ever fitness class. No fixed routine and no need to know your “thing”. 

Try something out and, if it’s not for you, simply switch it up.

Explore Edinburgh Leisure’s Venues

Spring Pass holders can enjoy all Edinburgh Leisure’s venues, including iconic fitness spaces such as: 

  • Meadowbank Sports Centre 
  • Royal Commonwealth Pool 
  • Victorian Swimming Pools 

Each venue offers a welcoming environment and a mix of activities suited to first‑timers, returners and anyone looking for a fresh start. 

A Simple First Step Into Spring 

No contracts. No long‑term commitment. No expectations. 

Just an easy, affordable way to move a little more this spring – and discover what feels good along the way.  

For more information or to purchase the Spring Pass, visit: Edinburgh Gym and Fitness Memberships – Swim, Climb, Golf 

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to helping people lead more active, healthy lives. With 75 sport, leisure and school venues across the city, it creates opportunities for everyone to get active and stay active.

Edinburgh Leisure launches Junior Golf Programme

Edinburgh Leisure continues to strengthen access to multi‑sport opportunities for young people across the capital

As the largest provider of sport and physical activity in Edinburgh, Edinburgh Leisure is continuing to invest in inclusive, high‑quality opportunities for young people with the launch of a brand‑new Junior Golf Instruction Programme.

The new programme further enhances Edinburgh Leisure’s extensive junior coaching offer, which already spans a wide range of sports including Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Climbing, Dance, Diving, Football, Gymnastics, Judo, Netball, Swimming, Tennis and Trampolining.

The addition of golf reflects Edinburgh Leisure’s ongoing commitment to ensuring children and young people can access and experience a variety of sports across the city, regardless of background or ability.

Delivered at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh Leisure’s fast‑growing coaching hub, the Junior Golf Programme will run indoors, making it accessible year‑round and ideal for beginners.

Meadowbank has seen significant demand across multiple junior sports in recent years, and the introduction of golf builds on this momentum, reinforcing the venue’s role as a centre of excellence for youth sport.

Notably, Gymnastics was successfully introduced to Meadowbank in Summer 2025, enabling the programme to expand its capacity and offer even more opportunities for young athletes.

Designed for children aged 7–12, the programme offers a fun, supportive introduction to golf, led by friendly Community Golf Instructors. Two six‑week courses are available:

  • Golf Minis (Ages 7–9): A playful introduction focusing on confidence, coordination and fundamental movement skills.
  • Fairway Flyers (Ages 10–12): Helping older children develop technique, coordination and an early understanding of the game.

Sessions began on 23 February, with Golf Minis running on Mondays from 3.30pm–4.30pm, followed by Fairway Flyers from 4.30pm–5.30pm. With February and March courses fully booked, be sure to follow Edinburgh Leisure social channels for upcoming sessions.

Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “As a city‑wide provider, our focus is on giving young people the chance to try different sports, find what they enjoy and build confidence through movement.

“The introduction of junior golf at Meadowbank strengthens our multi‑sport offer and helps ensure children across Edinburgh can access high‑quality coaching in a welcoming and inclusive environment.”

For those ready to progress beyond indoor sessions, Edinburgh Leisure also provides access to six golf courses across the city, including Craigentinny, Carrick Knowe, Silverknowes, Portobello, Braid Hills, and the Wee Braids, supporting young players to continue their sporting journey close to home.

Through its expanding junior coaching programme, Edinburgh Leisure remains committed to helping young people be active, confident, and connected, using sport as a gateway to lifelong physical activity across communities throughout Edinburgh.

Further information on Edinburgh Leisure Junior Golf Programme can be found here – Junior Indoor Golf Coaching Edinburgh Leisure.

Edinburgh Leisure triumphs with National Sustainability Award

Groundbreaking composting project sets new standard for food waste reduction in Sports and Leisure

Edinburgh Leisure is thrilled to announce a remarkable achievement – winning its first National Sustainability Award at the prestigious Green Apple Environment Awards, hosted by The Green Organisation.

Perrotine Orr (Director of Operations) and Jill Johnstone (Energy & Sustainability Officer) proudly accepted the 2026 gold award, which recognises Edinburgh Leisure’s outstanding efforts in food waste reduction within sport and leisure venues.

This accolade marks a major milestone for Edinburgh Leisure, reflecting the success of an innovative composting project funded by the Solar Co-operative Community Benefit Fund. The initiative is already transforming how food waste is managed across venues, setting the bar for sustainable practice in the sector.

By harnessing the collaborative spirit of the Sustainability Team, Café Venue Teams, and Grounds Maintenance Team, the project set out with a clear aim – to drastically reduce food waste by establishing on-site composting facilities.

The project owes its inception to one of Edinburgh Leisure’s passionate Green Champions, Ed Bethune, whose grassroots idea has blossomed into a model of environmental stewardship.

Five HotBin composting units have now been installed at pilot venues; Meadowbank Sports Centre, Royal Commonwealth Pool, Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, and Tumbles at Portobello, ensuring food waste from both customers and staff is collected and composted on-site.

Early results have been nothing short of outstanding. Edinburgh Leisure has already generated high-quality, nutrient-rich compost, which the Grounds Maintenance Team is using to enrich greenspace and planting across multiple sites.

Jill Johnstone said, “By producing our own compost, we are not only reducing waste and carbon emissions, but also making a significant saving on operational costs by replacing commercially purchased compost”.

This award-winning project is a shining example of what can be achieved when teams work together with a shared purpose. It represents an important stride towards Edinburgh Leisure’s net zero plan and environment sustainability strategic aim. The collaborative efforts and targeted funding have enabled meaningful environmental impact, propelling Edinburgh Leisure to the forefront of sustainable practice within the industry.

With this recognition, Edinburgh Leisure reaffirms its commitment to expanding greener operations and building a more sustainable future for all.

Further information on Edinburgh Leisure environmental and Net Zero aims can be found in the most recent Impact Report:

Fit for the Future: Edinburgh Leisure’s Impact in Motion | Edinburgh Leisure

Take On Edinburgh’s Most Unique Aquathlon: 2026 Victorian Pool Crawl Applications Open

75 Participants Sought for Charity Challenge Across Five Victorian Pools This Easter Monday

Who’s ready for their next adventure? Edinburgh Leisure is calling on spirited individuals for the 2026 Victorian Pool Crawl!

It’s a one-of-a-kind aquathlon-style charity fundraiser, taking place on Easter Monday, 6th April 2026, across the city’s five beautiful Victorian swimming pools. Challengers will swim in each pool and then walk to the next, in doing so covering a half-marathon distance whilst raising essential funds for Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme.

Applications are now open for one of the 75 available places.

Event Details & Registration

Participants will swim up to 1 km at each of the five Victorian pools walk a total of 16 km, in one challenging, inspiring day. Each applicant is asked to secure a minimum of £350 in donations, with all proceeds supporting Active Communities, Edinburgh Leisure’s charity programme which supports people with barriers to being active.

Once accepted, a £20 registration fee secures your spot on the Pool Crawl. Every participant will receive an exclusive event t-shirt, swim cap, locker token, swim training plan, finisher’s goody bag, and entry to a prize draw for a year’s Edinburgh Leisure Swim Membership.

Why Support Active Communities?

Yearly, over 14,700 local people benefit from Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme, which offers activities and support to those facing poverty, disabilities, health challenges, and other inequalities.

This Easter Monday, your efforts will help create healthier, more active lives for our neighbours who need it most.

“Active Communities is at the heart of our mission to transform Edinburgh’s health and wellbeing. Every year we help thousands of people across the city overcome barriers to being active by accessing the support and activities they need for a healthier life” says Rachael McCrea, Head of Funding.

“The Victorian Pool Crawl is not only a celebration of our city’s heritage pools, but also a vital fundraiser. We’re excited to welcome a new group of participants to make a real difference this year.”

Returning participant Marek Bernat told us, “Completing the final lane last year was tough, but extremely rewarding.

“We all knew our efforts would help fund local community programmes, and that was a true highlight. It’s an unforgettable challenge.”