A period of transformation has been recorded at leisure centres across Torfaen, with substantial numbers of fresh members joining and new funding flowing into the facilities.
The organisation now overseeing Torfaen’s recreational services is Halo Leisure, a social enterprise that assumed control in April the previous year. Since then, the enterprise has attracted 3,200 additional members and provided swimming instruction to more than 2,000 young people.
Its portfolio includes Cwmbran Stadium, the Pontypool and Bowden Active Living Centres, Fairwater Leisure Centre, and the Snowsport Torfaen venue.
Owen Thomas, Partnership Manager at Halo, explained that the organisation’s focus has consistently been on establishing a welcoming atmosphere where all individuals feel they belong. The business has demonstrated that recreation extends beyond physical fitness by restoring popular attractions and implementing accessible pricing structures.
Among the improvements carried out since the handover are the restoration of water slides at Pontypool Active Living Centre, enhancements to Wales’ longest artificial ski slope also in Pontypool, expansion and renovation of the gym at Cwmbran Stadium, and the reopening of the indoor climbing facility.
David Leech, who serves as Deputy Chief Executive and Strategic Director for Adults and Communities at Torfaen County Borough Council, noted that Halo plays a significant role within the Torfaen Deal framework, with the collaboration already generating tangible advantages for local residents. The council representative highlighted the immediate capital injected into recreational infrastructure and the rise in local people taking out memberships as evidence of the organisation’s dedication to supporting both physical and mental wellbeing.
Currently, 73 community organisations and sporting clubs maintain regular bookings at Halo’s venues, a figure that includes participants in the council’s women-focused If You Go I Go initiative.
Caroline Jones, a resident of Cwmbran, observed that the fitness facility has undergone significant improvements and expressed appreciation for the availability of free weight equipment. She also welcomed the return of previously shuttered amenities.
Torfaen council has indicated its intention to seek additional collaborative ventures with Halo, while Mr Leech voiced enthusiasm about identifying promising new projects that could channel further resources into these essential health and wellbeing centres for the community.