In 2007, the South Dorset Community Sports Trust Ltd finally secured the Osprey Leisure centre for the Portland community and opened its doors to the public. Ten years ago the centre had 35,000 visitors in the first year and huge utility and machine servicing costs. It became clear to the trustees that the facility would not be sustainable in the long term unless visitor numbers could be increased and utility costs reduced in some way.
With energy savings being top priority improvements commenced with a new cover for the pool, low energy lighting, new chemical dosing and the installation of solar panels on the roof.
Gradual upgrading continued and with the arrival of the 2012 Olympic Games funds became available to install three new gym areas and a café in the reception foyer. In turn visitor numbers increased and now foot fall has trebled to over 100,000 visitors per annum.
In October Osprey Leisure applied to the National Lottery for a Celebration grant to coincide with the queen’s own 90th birthday year of celebration. The centre was successful in their application and now plans are well underway for a fantastic Open Day on Saturday 14th January 2017.
Nigel Williams, General Manager of Osprey Leisure Centre said “Applying for grants and financial support is essential to the ongoing success of the Leisure Centre. The centre is used by people of all ages from babies learning to swim through to people who enjoy the Young at Heart group, some users even being well into their eighties. There will be a selection of sporting activities throughout the day to watch and participate in from water based sessions to archery, badminton, table tennis and short mat bowls. It is fantastic that we have been given the opportunity to host the day and make it so special for us and the whole community. Entry is free all day and everyone is welcome.”
On Saturday 14thJanuary 2016, Osprey Leisure Centre will be hosting an Open Day when members and non-members will be invited to have a tour around the facilities at the centre, try out some new activities and enjoy refreshments in the Café. The Open Day will start at 10am and will go on into the evening. Entry will be free, Live Bands from 6pm, Hog Roast, Pizza, Bar and evening Fireworks at 8pm weather permitting plus many more activities will be on offer for visitors to try.
For more information please call 01305 824378 or visit www.ospreyleisure.co.uk
