Southampton City Council appoints charity to run sport and leisure centres

The council is pleased to announce that following a comprehensive competitive process, leading leisure operator BH Live will take over the management of leisure services across Southampton from Monday 1 September 2025

BH Live is a registered charity and social enterprise, on a mission to improve health and wellbeing in the communities they serve across Dorset and Hampshire. They bring extensive experience in delivering leisure and health facilities supporting fitness, swimming, community programmes, and wellness services to residents of all ages and abilities. BH Live will now operate the following venues and services:

• The Quays Swimming and Diving Complex
• Bitterne Leisure Centre
• Chamberlayne Leisure Centre
• Outdoor Sports Centre
• Bookings of council’s sports pitches

This strategic partnership marks a major milestone in the city’s commitment to improving health and wellbeing. BH Live will improve service delivery across all venues, drive participation in physical activity, and ensure the long-term sustainability of Southampton’s leisure facilities.

Southampton City Council and BH Live will provide further updates over the coming months, including plans for the handover, opportunities for engagement, and future service enhancements.

Councillor Toqeer Kataria, Cabinet Member for Compliance and Leisure, said: “We’re excited to begin this new partnership with BH Live, which shares our commitment to improving health outcomes and providing inclusive leisure services for all. This is a positive step forward for the city, and we are confident BH Live will help us realise our long-term ambitions for physical activity, wellbeing and community engagement.”

BH Live will work closely with the council, the existing operator, and local stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition of services and continuity for both customers and staff. The organisation will also focus on digital improvements, community outreach, and increasing usage across all age groups and abilities. BH Live will also support the council’s broader strategic goals, including tackling health inequalities, supporting local employment, and reducing the city’s carbon footprint through green initiatives in facility operations.

Jon Workman, BH Live’s Chief Executive, added: “We’re delighted to be working alongside Southampton City Council and the many individuals and organisations already doing fantastic work in the community to help more people enjoy the benefits of sport and recreation.

"At the core of this partnership is a shared belief: that regular movement and physical activity can make a powerful difference to people’s physical health and mental wellbeing. We know that sustainable, accessible, affordable, and welcoming spaces are essential to making that possible. By combining our expertise in delivering high-quality services, with a shared ambition to create real impact, we’re confident this partnership will help drive positive change across the city.”