New Prestwick centre figures show “outstanding” early success

PROMISING NUMBERS: New Prestwick Leisure Centre's numbers are proving a positive community impact (Credit: South Ayrshire Council)

Recent statistics on the use of a newly refurbished fitness facility in Prestwick demonstrate its “positive impact”, according to South Ayrshire Council.

Prestwick Leisure Centre underwent a complete makeover in August 2024 before reopening to the public in September this year with its new looks, and is already displaying promising numbers.

Figures posted by the council this week for October highlighted attendance to have increased by 8%, in comparison to October 2023, as gym usage displayed an “impressive rise” of 61%.

Active fitness memberships have also shot up by 18% since the former leisure facilities closed over a year ago.

Figures regarding environmental factors show a 38% drop in gas consumption and a 60% decrease in electricity use that are projecting the council to save £45,000 annually in avoided energy expenses.

In a statement on their website, South Ayrshire Council said: “Just weeks after reopening, the newly refurbished leisure centre is already proving to be an outstanding success for the community.

“Feedback about the upgraded centre has been overwhelmingly positive. Our Sport and Leisure staff have echoed this enthusiasm, describing the centre as a pleasure to work in, with clean, modern facilities and improved office spaces that creates a lovely working environment.”

Positive customer reviews have also emerged with focus on improvements to the likes of the Changing Village, poolside area, and the new centre’s internal lighting.

Councillor Alec Clark, Policy Lead for Commercial and Operational Services, also showed his praise for the recent statistics and progress. He said:  “It’s wonderful to see how strongly the community has responded to the Prestwick Leisure Centre refurbishment.

“The transformation has created a modern, welcoming and sustainable facility that our customers are clearly enjoying. This success reflects the dedication of everyone involved and shows what can be achieved when we invest in our community’s health and wellbeing.”

The opening date of the new centre was originally pushed back to September 29 from Spring following the £3.5 million refurbishment.

The makeover has also seen the refilling and retiling of the swimming pool and improvements to areas such as family and baby changing rooms and a “welcoming” reception.