BH Live wins bid to run sport and leisure centres in Southampton

BH Live will take over the management of sport and leisure services across Southampton from Monday 1 September 2025. Southampton City Council appointed the social enterprise to take over the contract following a tender process.

BH Live will now operate five venues and services on behalf of the council – The Quays Swimming and Diving Complex, Bitterne Leisure Centre, Chamberlayne Leisure Centre, and Outdoor Sports Centre – as well as manage bookings of the council’s sports pitches.

The facilities were previously operated by Active Nation, which ceased trading earlier this year, and are currently managed by Places Leisure.

Councillor Toqeer Kataria, Cabinet Member for 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.”

According to Jon Workman, BH Live’s CEO, the organisation 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.

BH Live will focus on digital improvements, community outreach, and increasing usage across all age groups and abilities. It 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.

Workman said: “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.