Bournemouth One Business News, with Laceys Solicitors
BH Live is marking its 15th anniversary this month, celebrating its work in running leisure centres, theatres and event venues that support communities in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
The charity began in 2010 to manage Bournemouth’s major public leisure and cultural venues including Bournemouth International Centre, the Pavilion, Littledown, Pelhams and Stokewood. It also operates the Queen’s Park and Corfe Mullen centres, and Sir David English Sports Centre with Bournemouth School Charitable Trust.
Since then, BH Live has grown significantly. In Bournemouth alone, it supports over £21 million a year in social value through health, leisure and cultural activities. It has also invested more than £20 million into improving facilities across the area including upgraded gyms, pools and event spaces.
The charity reinvests all its surplus into facilities and programmes and works to reduce financial barriers. That includes free swimming for children, discounted exercise classes and open days at leisure and theatre venues.
Chief Executive Jon Workman said the impact of their work can be seen in “increases in participation, growth of services and another encouraging operating surplus.”
More than five million visits are made to BH Live venues each year. It also employs over 1,500 people in sport, health, entertainment, hospitality and customer service roles.
The charity’s environmental efforts include solar panels, electric vehicle charging and enhanced recycling systems. All venues now hold Green Mark level 2 accreditation.
Councillor Andy Martin from BCP Council said BH Live “has played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for our residents.”