The proposal, which is one of Alliance’s 100 Goals for Belfast, was put forward to the People and Communities Committee by Ormiston Councillor Abernethy in May 2025. 

Cllr Abernethy said: “Our proposal for one free leisure activity would enable Belfast residents to participate in activities at council leisure facilities, creating opportunities to either re-engage with physical activity or try something new.

“As part of this initiative, the Council will also explore ways to engage with residents who are less likely to participate in health and wellbeing interventions, and work to increase accessibility to Belfast City Council activities."

Cllr Murray added: “We hope that through the introduction of this scheme, we can remove some barriers to health and fitness that many people face and allow more residents to enjoy our council leisure facilities across the city and inspire new interests in activities.

“This proposal also ties in with Belfast City Council’s community plan, which seeks to increase the health and well-being of all residents by 2035.”