Northfield Leisure Centre has been shortlisted for the Regional Public Leisure Centre of the Year award at the 2026 ‘ukactive Awards’, recognising its outstanding contribution to improving health, wellbeing and community inclusion across South Birmingham.
The national awards celebrate the very best leisure facilities and organisations from across the UK, highlighting centres that are delivering exceptional experiences while creating lasting social impact in their communities.
Since opening in 2018, Northfield Leisure Centre has become a thriving community hub, welcoming thousands of residents every week and providing accessible opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to be active. The centre has seen membership grow by more than 8% over the past 18 months and now supports more than 3,000 swim school learners annually.
A key factor in the centre's success has been its commitment to breaking down barriers to participation. Through Birmingham City Council's BeActive scheme, Northfield generates more than 5,000 visits every month from non-members, giving local residents free access to activities that support healthier lifestyles.
Northfield also works closely with organisations including Mencap, NHS services and local GP practices to support people living with long-term health conditions through rehabilitation and exercise programmes, including cardiac rehabilitation.
Innovation has also played an important role in Northfield's development. The introduction of Project Wade, which aligns swimming lessons with Swim England stage criteria, has improved progression and retention within its popular swim school programme.
Mark Reynolds, Contract Manager for Birmingham Community Leisure Trust (BCLT), which operates the centre in partnership with Serco Leisure, said:
"Being named a finalist at the ukactive Awards is fantastic recognition for everyone at Northfield Leisure Centre. The team works tirelessly to ensure the centre is welcoming, inclusive and responsive to the needs of the local community. From supporting people to become more active for the first time, to helping individuals improve their health and confidence, the impact being created at Northfield extends far beyond the leisure centre walls. We are extremely proud to see their achievements recognised on a national stage."
Looking to the future, Northfield Leisure Centre is continuing to expand its community reach through new initiatives including Les Mills Virtual classes, enhanced partnerships with local healthcare providers, improved accessibility through AccessAble, and the continued delivery of free Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programmes for children and families.
The winners of the 2026 ukactive Awards will be announced later this year at a ceremony taking place at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre, with Northfield Leisure Centre representing the city as one of the leading public leisure facilities in the region
In partnership with Serco Leisure, BCLT operates ten leisure facilities across the city on behalf of Birmingham City Council.
