Record numbers using leisure facilities in West Dunbartonshire

Published 27 May 2026

West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust (WDLT) has reported a significant rise in the number of people using its service, with an increase of more than 53,000 in the last year.

A report to the Council’s Corporate Services committee detailed a strong business plan showing an increase in users across the majority of services offered by the Trust.

Figures show an increase in the number of children and young people, including children with an additional support need, taking part in Active Schools sessions.  

Gym membership and visits to the area’s three swimming pools show an all time high with gym memberships rising to a record 8,564 last year and attendances at swimming pools also reaching 428,123.

Families using the Trust’s swimming pools for lessons increased by 34,000 and community sporting activities rose by more than 5,000. Visits to centres during holiday periods also show an increase. 

Along with running the areas three leisure centres and offering high quality sporting opportunities for school children, the service delivers three annual outdoor events including the Scottish Pipe Band Championships; the annual Firework Display at Levengrove Park and the popular Run Loch Lomond 10k, 5k and family fun run.

The service is shaped by three strategic objectives including health and wellbeing opportunities for all; a thriving not-for-profit charity and financial sustainability.

Councillor William Rooney, Convener of Corporate Services, said: “I am pleased to see the growth year-on-year being produced by WDLT and how these services are playing an increasingly important role in the health and wellbeing of our children and young people. I know how important it is to have these facilities on offer and the figures clearly show a steady rise in the number of people using the services. 

Councillor David McBride, Partner Director at the Trust said: “The report highlights the significant achievements of leisure facilities and the dedicated leisure staff who have worked hard to offer a wide range of sporting activities whether it’s for babies at the Ready, Steady Roll class or encouraging residents to keep active in their retirement, our centres have something for everyone. I would like to thank everyone in WDLT for their commitment in keeping our residents fit and healthy.”