Chelmsford's community leisure centres have reached unprecedented levels of engagement, achieving almost 1. 7 million visits from April 2023 to March 2024. This impressive figure reflects a considerable increase in participation, with 4,856 new members signing up for monthly memberships last year. The Riverside Leisure Centre has emerged as a standout facility, attracting over 5,172 members and recording more than 1. 1 million visits.

This surge in membership can be partly attributed to recent renovations at the CSAC gym, which opened with an extended timetable in November 2023. The growing interest in fitness and wellbeing underscores a broader community commitment to active living. Both Riverside and CSAC have seen a membership rise of around 18% compared to the previous year, emphasizing the effectiveness of these initiatives. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of various facilities and classes available, whether through membership or pay-per-use options. This trend not only fosters healthier lifestyles but also enhances community engagement and social interaction among residents.