Public leisure services boost economy by £16 million

The fitness industry is worth more than £16 million to the economy of Perth and Kinross, new figures have revealed.

Live Active Leisure (LAL), the health and fitness trust of Perth and Kinross Council, contributed £16.1m to the region in gross value added to the region’s economy.

Around 9,000 people – 6% of the area’s population – are members of LAL but people who are not members, including visitors, can pay to use the facilities.

An economic impact study by independent Scottish consultancy firm BiGGAR Economics also showed the leisure facilities have saved £6m on healthcare as improved mental and physical wellbeing through exercising led to a reduction on health and social care costs.

Paul Cromwell, the new chief executive of LAL, said: “Perth and Kinross regularly scores highly in quality of life indices and the attractive lifestyle cited is undoubtedly enhanced by our offering. This research showed us that almost 60% of our customers would exercise less or not at all if their Live Active venue was not available, which really emphasises the value of what we do.

“We have always worked hard to ensure that these services represent best value for money. As a registered charity, we have always been confident that we provide good quality and accessible facilities for the people of Perth and Kinross.

“The cost-effective delivery of these services should ensure an excellent return and we believe this shows just how successful LAL is at doing just that.”

The study also showed LAL provides 393 full-time jobs and contributed a further £2.3m through tourism and events.