Carlisle’s Sands Centre has been named as one of the best leisure venues in the UK.
It has been given a rating of excellent by Quest, a Sport England recommended tool for facilities to measure how effective organisations are at providing customer service.
Following an in-depth assessment last month, the Quest accreditation recognised The Sands Centre as one of the highest-performing leisure facilities in the country.
Operated by charitable social enterprise and worker-owned co-op GLL, the facility was praised for its outstanding customer service, inclusive programming, cleanliness, and its evolving role as a community health and wellbeing hub.
GLL said the Sands Centre’s achievements included:
- 113.7% increase in visitor footfall year-on-year
- Gym membership tripling
- Significant growth in swim school and gymnastics programmes
- Social value impact increasing from £3.4 million to £4.3 million – equivalent to £254 per person
- Strong health outcomes, with 99% of referred patients becoming physically active.
James McGarry, general manager of The Sands Centre, said: “This recognition reflects the dedication of our incredible team who work tirelessly to provide an outstanding experience for every visitor.
” Our vision to transform into a health and wellbeing hub and help tackle health inequalities across Cumberland is being realised, and this result from Quest shows we’re making a real difference to people’s lives.”
The centre’s commitment to accessibility and community wellbeing was also acknowledged, with initiatives such as senior activities, inclusive sport sessions, and collaborations with NHS services and local groups highlighted.
