FAQs: Southampton centres

Following the news that Active Nation have ceased trading, we can confirm that from 3rd April 2025 all Active Nation memberships, bookings, and staff will be transferred to Places Leisure.  This transition will be managed carefully and professionally, with a priority on continuity of service wherever possible and minimal disruption.  

Below are some answers to our most frequently asked questions.

Jump to:

• Centre Operations
• Memberships
• Activity sessions/lessons
• Block Bookings

Centre Operations  

Will the centre close whilst the transfer of management takes place? 

It is important to us that the transfer process creates as little disruption for our Customers and Colleagues, therefore your centre will remain open and operational whilst the transfer of management takes place. 

Will the opening hours stay the same? 

Initially, yes. All opening hours, session times and bookings will remain the same whist the transfer takes place.  We’ll advise you of any changes that affect your memberships or bookings.   

Does the change of management affect the people who work there? 

We’re pleased to say that you will still see the same familiar faces who’ve served you previously.  Please be patient, whilst the facility stays the same, some of the systems and policies maybe a little different and the team will need time to adjust.  

Will I still access my centre in the same way? 

All membership activities will still be accessible via your membership card.  

Will there be changes to management or ownership? 

Southampton City Council will still maintain ownership of the leisure facilities at this time whilst Places Leisure manage the daily operations.  

Memberships  

I’ve got an Active Nation membership, what should I do? 

There is no need to do anything.  Places Leisure are honouring all Active Nation memberships and will be in touch soon. If you pay by direct debit, there will be some changes to the accounts from which the Direct Debit is collected, these changes will be communicated to members directly.   

Will there be a change to my membership terms and conditions? 

Currently, we are not planning any changes to terms and conditions. 

I’ve just renewed my annual membership. Will I lose this money by this change of management? 

Your membership fee is safe, and you will be able to access our leisure centres as normal. 

Activity sessions/lessons  

How do I make activity bookings?

You can continue to make activity bookings in the same way that you have previously done using your existing accounts.

I/my child is booked on to an activity, lesson, course, what should I do? 

We would encourage you to attend the sessions as normal, our priority is to provide a continuity of service wherever possible with minimal disruption. Any bookings or subscriptions are still valid, and you will be able to access our leisure centre offering as normal. 

Block Bookings  

I currently block book one of the centre facilities, how do I continue this? 

Block bookings will continue as normal, and Customers will be contacted directly. Please be patient with the teams whilst they get to grips with new procedures and systems.

Still have a question? You can get in touch with our centre teams via email at the following email address:

Alpine Snowsports Southampton - snowsports.southampton@activenation.org.uk

Bitterne Leisure Centre - bitterne.lc@activenation.org.uk

Chamberlayne Leisure Centre - chamberlayne.lc@activenation.org.uk

Outdoor Sports Centre - sports.centre@activenation.org.uk

Southampton Water Activity Centre - info@swac.co.uk

The Quays - thequays@activenation.org.uk

Woodmill - info@woodmill.co.uk