Better Investment in Connswater

Jan 19, 2026

SENI is always keen to celebrate the successes of NI’s best Social Enterprises. Especially one that a large number of people use every day, or every few weeks depending on the level of guilt! Better Gym Connswater has just been completely refurbished with state of the art Technogym cardio and strength equipment and new functional training zones with immersive lighting. It only just reopened on the 5th Jan with 300 residents joining in the first 2 weeks!
An official opening marking the major investment was held on January 16 and was attended by Gavin Robinson MP, Belfast East MLAs Andy Allen, David Brooks, Joanne Bunting, and Peter McReynolds, and Belfast City Councillors Hedley Abernethy, Ruth Brooks, Pádraig Donnelly, Sammy Douglas, Anthony Flynn, and Gary McKeown. The project represents a complete reimagining of the gym experience, designed to inspire and empower users of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. GLL is the social enterprise that operates public leisure facilities across Belfast under their Better brand

Jacqui Pope, Head of Service, GLL, said, “This transformation of Better Gym Connswater represents the single largest reinvestment GLL has ever made in a Belfast facility, and it reflects our long-term commitment to supporting the health, wellbeing and social connection of local communities. Every upgrade, every detail, and every choice has been made with our members at the centre.”

This major investment follows on from major refurbishments in 2025 in Ballysillan, Whiterock and Falls leisure centres as part of GLL’s ongoing commitment to improving leisure facilities across Belfast and supporting healthier, more active communities. The transformed Better Gym Connswater has become a vibrant wellness hub, encouraging social connection, boosting local engagement, and increasing footfall in the surrounding area in the two weeks since its reopening.

In addition to its health and wellbeing benefits, the redevelopment offers opportunities for collaboration with local businesses, brands, and community organisations, supporting economic growth and strengthening East Belfast’s profile as a modern destination for fitness and lifestyle.

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