Getting Active, Staying Active Leisure Strategy 2025-2034

A leisure strategy for Ards and North Down where everyone can enjoy an active life

This is the first Leisure Strategy for Ards and North Down, developed by the Council and delivered in partnership with local agencies, organisations, and community groups. Together, we aim to create more opportunities for active leisure—anything that involves exercise—so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle.

Extensive consultation through surveys and meetings has shown strong support for the strategy and a real desire from residents and partners to be involved in its delivery. The strategy comes at a time when the role of active leisure in tackling wider health and social challenges is increasingly recognised.

Getting Active, Staying Active aligns with the Council's Corporate Plan, which commits to "progress towards a Sustainable Borough through innovation in our services and greater partnerships with our residents and other organisations."

The strategy focuses on four key themes:

Active Partnerships - Working together to make active leisure accessible for all.

Active Opportunities - Creating inclusive activities for every age and ability.

Active Communications - Promoting the benefits of being active and making information easy to find.

Active Support - Helping providers deliver high-quality, sustainable leisure opportunities.

Our goal is simple: to encourage and enable more people to get active and stay active throughout their lives.

Getting Active, Staying Active

A shared ten‑year plan to help residents enjoy active lives and collaborate with local organisations to deliver inclusive, accessible activities that improve health, wellbeing, and community life.

A strategy of collaboration - Working Together to Support More People to Get Active and Stay Active

This strategy helps providers of active leisure across the borough to connect, collaborate and access support to grow participation, tackle inequality, and deliver activities that make a real difference locally.

A strategy for residents - Supporting active lives, in ways that work for you

From walking and swimming to dance, fitness, and outdoor activities, this ten‑year strategy is about making it easier for everyone in Ards and North Down to move more, feel better and stay well - whatever your age, ability or starting point.

Learn more

Learn more: explore the Leisure Strategy here » Getting Active, Staying Active Leisure Strategy 2025-2034 (PDF, 18 MB) (opens new window)