The EVOLVE Public Leisure Intelligence Report 2026 provides an independent view of the structure, management and future direction of the UK public leisure sector.

Built using the EVOLVE Public Leisure Intelligence Database, the report brings together operational data, historic management records, contract intelligence, facility research and development monitoring to make this complex and highly fragmented market easier to understand.

Inside the report:

• An overview of approximately 2,700 operational public leisure sites
• Analysis of 990 named management organisations
• The distribution of trusts, in-house services, education providers, contractors and other management models
• Rankings and analysis of the UK’s largest public leisure operators
• Insights drawn from more than 6,200 historic management records
• Analysis of management stability and how frequently facilities change operator
• Publicly available management contract expiry intelligence
• Examples of investment, refurbishment and estate-renewal projects
• Analysis of facilities and services within the modern public leisure centre
• The age profile of the UK public leisure estate
• The EVOLVE Development Monitor, covering 348 live projects
• Key themes expected to shape the future of public leisure

The report is designed for:

• Local authorities and public-sector decision-makers
• Leisure trusts and management contractors
• Fitness and leisure operators
• Equipment suppliers and service providers
• Property, construction and development specialists
• Investors, consultants and advisers
• Organisations working across health, wellbeing and physical activity

This inaugural edition provides a valuable strategic reference for organisations seeking to understand market structure, benchmark the operator landscape, monitor investment activity and identify the trends influencing future public leisure provision.

Format: Digital PDF
Edition: First Edition, 2026
Market snapshot: June 2026

The report provides market intelligence and analysis for strategic research purposes. It does not constitute investment advice.