26th March 2026
COSLA has today (26th March) published The Future of Public Leisure and Sport – An Investment in Wellbeing, setting out an evidence-based case for transforming Scotland’s approach to public leisure, sport and physical activity.
The paper highlights a pivotal moment for Scotland, arguing that improving population health, supporting inclusive economic growth and restoring sustainable public finances will require a decisive shift from crisis response to long-term prevention.
Local Government is central to this ambition. Councils and their Leisure Trusts deliver the majority of Scotland’s leisure services and manage key community assets, including sports facilities, parks and active travel spaces, providing vital opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to stay active and connected.
However, the sector faces increasing pressure from outdated legislation, rising operational costs and short-term funding. COSLA’s paper calls for multi-year, flexible investment, modernisation of existing legislation, national support for infrastructure renewal, stronger leadership and data, and a renewed focus on inclusion and workforce development from the next Scottish Government.
The report presents evidence and case studies showing that sustained investment in leisure and sport can reduce demand on health and social care services, improve educational outcomes, boost employability and strengthen communities, while delivering wider economic and environmental benefits.
COSLA is urging the incoming Scottish Government to work in partnership with Local Government to unlock the full preventative potential of leisure, sport and physical activity, and to support a healthier, more equal and more prosperous Scotland.
Cllr Maureen Chalmers, COSLA Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing, commented:
“This white paper makes clear that public leisure, sport and everyday physical activity are not optional extras - they are essential national assets that support Scotland’s health, wellbeing and resilience. Councils are proud to steward the facilities, programmes and open spaces that help people live healthier, happier and more connected lives, but these services are under real pressure.”
Cllr Paul Kelly, COSLA Spokesperson for Health and Social Care, commented:
“If Scotland is serious about shifting from crisis response to genuine prevention, we need long‑term investment, modern legislation and stronger national leadership. With the right partnership between Local and the new Scottish Government, we can unlock the full preventative power of leisure and sport and deliver better outcomes for every community in Scotland.”
