5th August 2026
Brio secures four finalist spots at the ukactive Awards
Brio has been shortlisted in four categories at the prestigious 2026 ukactive Awards, recognising an exceptional year of investment, innovation and community impact across Cheshire West and Chester. The nominations build on Brio’s success in 2025, winning the Education Programme of the Year award and being crowned Organisation of the Year.
Brio has been named a finalist in the following categories:
· Build, Redevelopment, or Refurbishment of the Year
· Marketing Campaign Award
· Centre of the Year (North) – Brio Ellesmere Port
· Physical Activity Hero Award – Dora Smith
The nominations recognise a landmark year for Brio, marked by the successful re-opening of Brio Northgate; the multi-million-pound refurbishment that has transformed one of Cheshire’s most iconic leisure and wellbeing destinations. The accompanying marketing and communications campaign has also been recognised by the judges.
Brio Ellesmere Port has been shortlisted for Centre of the Year (North), it’s first nomination since opening in 2015. The centre serves thousands of customers each year and offers a broad range of facilities including a large gym, sports hall, swimming pools, and athletics track.
Reflecting Brio’s commitment to improving health and wellbeing across local communities, recently retired Brio employee Dora Smith has been shortlisted for the Physical Activity Hero Award. The nomination recognises her outstanding contribution to wellbeing services and the lasting impact she has had on the lives of hundreds of residents across the borough.
Hosted by ukactive, the annual awards ceremony celebrates excellence and innovation across the UK’s physical activity sector and is regarded as one of the industry’s highest honours.
The winners will be announced at the ukactive Awards Ceremony in Birmingham on Thursday, October 8.
Commenting on the nominations, Matt Parker, Managing Director at Brio, said: “Being shortlisted in four categories is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the passion and commitment of everyone at Brio. We’re incredibly proud of the hard work that has brought us to this point."
“This has been a transformational year for Brio, from the reopening of Brio Northgate to the launch of our new business strategy and our continued investment in our people, facilities, and services. While we’re excited to attend the ceremony, these nominations are ultimately recognition of the dedication of our colleagues and the positive difference they make in communities every day”.
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