Moray sport and leisure services deliver strong year for communities
Moray Council's Sport and Leisure Service has celebrated a successful year, with strong participation levels, targeted support for young people and vulnerable residents, and income exceeding expectations.
A new annual report highlights the positive impact of services across Moray during 2025/26.
Key achievements in 2025/26 include:
- 258,627 swimming admissions across Moray's five swimming pools.
- 130,932 fitness admissions to gyms and fitness classes.
- 73,925 community centre admissions.
- 3,196 astroturf pitch bookings and 500 grass football pitch bookings.
- The service exceeded its income generation target by £98,000.
- Moray Council has 4,201 Fit Life memberships, representing more than 11% of Moray's population accessing the scheme.
- 490 free sport and leisure sessions were provided for young people experiencing poverty, young carers and care-experienced young people.
- 40 free one-to-one swimming lesson places were funded for young people with additional support needs.
- A subsidised lifeguard training programme helped local young adults gain qualifications and move into employment.
A report to the Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee also highlights significant investment in service improvements, including the introduction of a new online booking platform and mobile app, a refreshed brand identity, extensive staff training, and the transition to Scottish Swimming's national Learn to Swim programme.
Councillor Kathleen Robertson, Chair of Moray Council's Education, Children's and Leisure Services Committee, said: “This has been a very positive year for our Sport and Leisure Service. Hundreds of thousands of visits to our facilities show the important role they play in supporting the health, wellbeing and social connections of people across Moray.
“I'm particularly pleased to see the targeted work being delivered for young people and those who can face barriers to participation. By providing additional support and opportunities, we're helping more residents enjoy the benefits of being active.
“The team's success in exceeding income targets while continuing to invest in services, staff development and digital improvements is a fantastic achievement, and I would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and commitment.”