Our Commitment to Sustainability

At The Fifth Dimension Community Leisure Ltd, we believe that health, wellbeing, and sustainability go hand in hand. As a community-focused leisure facility, we are committed to creating positive environmental, social, and economic impacts for both current and future generations.

We recognise that leisure facilities can have a significant environmental footprint through energy use, water consumption, and waste generation. We therefore take our responsibility seriously and are committed to reducing our impact while continuing to provide accessible, inclusive, and high-quality facilities for our community.

Our sustainability commitment is built around four key pillars:

1. Environmental Responsibility
We are actively reducing our carbon footprint through improved energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, and responsible procurement.

2. Community Health & Inclusion
We are committed to creating affordable, inclusive, and welcoming spaces that improve physical health, mental wellbeing, and social connection for people of all ages and abilities.

3. Sustainable Growth & Development
As we expand our facilities, including new leisure and sports opportunities, sustainability will remain central to our planning, construction, and long-term operation.

4. Biodiversity & Green Spaces
Where possible, we aim to protect and enhance the natural environment around our sites, supporting biodiversity and improving green outdoor spaces for our community.

As part of our commitment, we have set an initial target to reduce our operational energy consumption by 20% by 2028, using 2026 as our baseline year. This target will be reviewed annually as we monitor progress and identify further opportunities for improvement.

Future developments such as Fifth Padel will be designed with sustainability in mind, including consideration of renewable energy generation, low-carbon heating systems, electric vehicle infrastructure, and energy-efficient building design.

By making meaningful changes today, we aim to build healthier communities and a more sustainable future for everyone.

The action plan should be a tab behind the statement i.e.  find out more button or drop down button?

Sustainability Action Plan (2025–2028)

Carbon Reduction Target

Target: Reduce operational energy consumption by 20% by 2028 (based on 2025 baseline).

Actions:

• Establish baseline energy and water consumption figures.
• Monitor utility usage monthly.
• Report annually on progress.

Energy Efficiency

• Replace all existing lighting with LED systems.
• Install motion sensors in low-traffic areas.
• Upgrade heating and ventilation systems for improved efficiency.
• Improve insulation where practical.
• Explore installation of solar PV panels.
• Assess feasibility of air source heat pumps for future developments.

Sustainable Development & Construction

For all new facilities and expansions:

• Prioritise energy-efficient building design.
• Use sustainable and responsibly sourced materials.
• Incorporate natural light and ventilation where possible.
• Consider renewable energy integration at the design stage.
• Install EV charging points where feasible.

Waste Reduction

• Eliminate unnecessary single-use plastics.
• Increase recycling points across all facilities.
• Introduce food waste separation where applicable.
• Reduce paper usage through digital systems.
• Work with suppliers to minimise packaging.

Water Conservation

• Install low-flow taps and shower heads.
• Conduct regular leak inspections.
• Monitor water usage.
• Promote responsible water use among members.

Sustainable Procurement

• Support local suppliers and businesses where possible.
• Prioritise environmentally friendly products.
• Purchase durable and recyclable materials.
• Choose eco-friendly cleaning products.

Travel & Transport

• Promote walking, cycling, and car-sharing to staff and members.
• Provide secure bicycle storage.
• Review staff travel policies to reduce unnecessary journeys.
• Support transition to electric vehicles over time.

Biodiversity Improvements

• Protect existing green areas around our facilities.
• Introduce native planting where appropriate.
• Improve outdoor landscaping to support pollinators and wildlife.
• Reduce chemical use in ground maintenance.

Community Inclusion & Social Value

• Continue providing affordable leisure opportunities.
• Expand access for disadvantaged groups and families.
• Work with schools, community organisations, and local sports groups.
• Support youth physical activity and mental wellbeing programmes.
• Promote inclusive participation across all age groups and abilities.

Staff Engagement

• Appoint a Sustainability Lead.
• Deliver annual sustainability awareness training.
• Encourage staff-led sustainability ideas and improvements.
• Include sustainability in operational decision-making.

Governance & Reporting

• Review sustainability objectives annually.
• Publish progress updates on our website.
• Adjust targets as new opportunities and technologies emerge.
• Ensure sustainability is embedded into long-term business planning.