Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is delighted to share its success at the Scottish Leisure Network Group (SLNG) Awards 2024, held on Thursday, 21st November at the Westwood Hotel in Cumbernauld. Competing against Scotland’s top leisure organisations, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust proudly took home two key awards: Facility of the Year for Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre and Team of the Year for its Sales & Commercial Development Team.

Facility of the Year: Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre

This award reflects the consistently high standards of Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre, demonstrated through outstanding customer feedback and mystery shopping results. As part of the SLNG’s award assessment process, a survey of 50 customers highlighted the Centre’s commitment to excellent service, strong community impact, and welcoming environment. Mystery shopping further showcased the dedication of the Kirkcaldy team in delivering consistent quality and a first-class customer experience.

Success Across All Fife Sports and Leisure Trust Venues
 

While this award specifically recognised Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre, the nomination celebrated achievements across all Fife Sports and Leisure Trust venues. These include:
 

• A 45% increase in memberships in 2024, reaching over 16,000 members (at the time of entering). 

• Successful modernisation projects enhancing accessibility, expanding services, and introducing family-focused memberships. 

• Growth in weekly fitness classes, now offering over 280 sessions, up from 200 in January 2024. 

• Community-focused programmes like Learn to Swim, welcoming over 8,000 participants, and Active Options, supporting over 800 new participants with long-term health conditions.
   

Colin Glencorse, Head of Operations at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, commented: “We are thrilled to see Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre recognised as Facility of the Year. This award reflects the hard work of our team, but also celebrates the incredible achievements across all our venues. Our commitment to providing innovative and welcoming services remains at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition inspires us to continue making a difference in the lives of our members.”

Team of the Year: Sales & Commercial Development Team

The Sales & Commercial Development Team’s success came from their focus on improving customer experiences and driving growth. By introducing holistic and inclusive membership options, the team helped increase participation to a record-breaking 2.5 million visits in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic attendance levels. They also built partnerships with over 300 health professionals and 95 corporate partners, offering more value to members and fostering stronger community connections.

Fraser MacKenzie, Head of Sales & Commercial Development at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said: “By listening to our members and adapting to their needs, we’ve not only improved our services but also made a real difference to the community. We’ve built strong partnerships with local health and social care organisations, which have allowed us to expand our reach and help even more people lead healthier, more active lives. The success of the Sales & Commercial Development Team reflects our organisation’s ability to collaborate effectively, embrace innovation, and tackle challenges with creativity and determination.”

Exciting Future Developments 

Looking ahead, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is embarking on several exciting projects, including:
 

• The £7.8 million refurbishment of Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre, featuring upgraded gym facilities, a new studio, and improved pool changing areas. 

• Launching HYROX ZONE at Carnegie Leisure Centre, bringing high-energy fitness challenges to attract a broader audience. 

• Deepening partnerships with local organisations, charities, health and social care providers, as well as Fife Council to enhance access to physical activity and wellbeing initiatives across the region.
   

Emma Walker, CEO of at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, added: “These awards are a testament to the amazing work of our staff and the support of our members. Our journey over the past year has been nothing short of transformational. We have not only modernised our membership offerings but have also deepened our impact on the community’s health and wellbeing. Going forward, we will work together with Fife Council and other partners to deliver the growth and innovation required to meet the challenges of the future and enable as many Fife residents as possible to enjoy the benefits of participating in physical activity and sport.”

Commitment to Community Impact

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust remains dedicated to modernisation, innovation, and fostering a welcoming environment across its venues. By focusing on accessibility and community wellbeing, the Trust is creating inclusive spaces where everyone can lead an active and healthy lifestyle.