The non-profit wins bid to manage St Mary’s Community and Leisure Centre, introducing new mental health, inclusion, and life skills programs.

Testlands, a local non-profit organisation that empowers communities through education, sport, and wellbeing were successful through a competitive process. The appointment will bring Testlands values-driven approach to the heart of St Mary’s.

The centre will continue to offer a range of facilities including:

• Sports halls
• Fitness classes
• Community meeting spaces
• Youth development programmes.

New initiatives focusing on mental health, social inclusion, and life skills development will be introduced under Testlands management.

Testlands has a proven track record of successful community partnerships and currently delivers impactful programmes across Hampshire. By collaborating with local organisations, there will be new opportunities and support to create positive outcomes for residents.  

St Mary’s closed on Monday 31 March whilst essential works take place. The works are due to complete later this year and then Testlands will take over the management and day-to-day running of the centre. The building will remain wholly owned by Southampton City Council.

Councillor Lorna Fielker, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: “St Mary’s Community and Leisure Centre is a cornerstone of the community. It has a vital role to play in supporting the health and wellbeing of residents by offering a range of leisure, wellness, and community facilities”. 

Luke Newman, Co-Founder of Testlands, said: “At Testlands, our mission is to create and enhance spaces, services, and opportunities that remove barriers to wellbeing. We work to empower communities in Southampton to thrive. Taking on the management of St Mary’s Community and Leisure Centre is an exciting step in that journey.
 
"Through our approach, which we call Intelligent Regeneration, we focus on listening to communities, unlocking local strengths, and developing services that are built to last”.

Joe Crook, Co-Founder of Testlands, added: “Our work is shaped by five pillars of wellbeing: physical, mental, financial, environmental and cultural. St Mary’s will be a central part of delivering that vision. It will become a welcoming, inclusive hub where local people feel supported, connected, and able to shape what happens next. We’re proud and excited to get started”.