Sutton Council has announced its latest green initiative by installing solar panels on the roof at the Westcroft Leisure Centre in Carshalton.
Westcroft Leisure Centre in Carshalton is taking a bold step towards sustainability with the installation of over 500 solar panels, thanks to a new partnership between Sutton Council and solar energy specialists Custom Solar.
The eco-friendly initiative, unveiled this week, will see 528 high-efficiency solar panels fitted to the centre’s roof, generating an estimated 233,476 kWh of clean, renewable energy every year. That’s enough to provide nearly 25% of the centre’s electricity needs, cutting both energy costs and carbon emissions in a significant win for the environment — and the borough’s budget.
The council expects the installation to save around £52,000 in electricity bills over the coming year alone. The project also supports Sutton’s wider sustainability goals and reinforces its ongoing commitment to reaching net zero.
Councillor Christopher Woolmer, Sutton Council’s Lead for the Environment, hailed the move as a milestone in the borough’s climate strategy.
“Sutton residents will soon be able to enjoy a greener Westcroft Leisure Centre,” he said. “The solar panel installation is a testament to our commitment to environmental sustainability and our responsibility to the local community. By harnessing the power of renewable energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also setting a positive example for other businesses and residents in Sutton.”
Peggy Lee, Group Sustainability Manager at Everyone Active, which manages the centre, added: “This is great news. Onsite renewable energy generation will significantly reduce the centre’s environmental impact. We’re proud to support Sutton Council’s net zero ambitions as part of our own sustainability journey.”
“By harnessing the power of renewable energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also setting a positive example for other businesses and residents in Sutton.”
-Christopher Woolmer, Lead for Environment
Sport, support and community spirit
Sutton Council’s four leisure centres, operated by Everyone Active, are bursting with energy this Easter as they deliver a packed programme of activities — from cheerleading championships to inclusive holiday schemes, all while promoting health, wellbeing, and community cohesion.
With free swimming available for residents over 60 and a year of complimentary membership offered to new foster carers, the centres continue to lead the way in making physical activity more accessible. A recent update to the council’s contract with Everyone Active has also introduced women-only sessions, ensuring more inclusive and comfortable spaces for all residents.
One local team making headlines is the Unity Allstars Cheerleading Squad, based at the David Weir Leisure Centre, who are heading to Orlando next week to represent Sutton at the Cheerleading World Championships. Their global stage debut marks a proud moment for the borough, showcasing the exceptional talent being nurtured within local facilities.
Meanwhile, families are making the most of the school holidays, with leisure centres buzzing with energy and activity. As May approaches — National Water Safety Month — daily Crash Swimming Courses are being held at Westcroft and Cheam leisure centres for children aged 3 to 15, helping young people strengthen their swimming skills and water safety awareness.
Sutton is also championing inclusive programming this Easter. The Inclusive Holiday Programme, running across leisure centre sites, ensures that children of all abilities have the chance to take part in engaging, adapted activities. The Phoenix Centre’s Youth Zone is offering a tailored half-term programme, while the Junior Adventures Group is delivering a full-day holiday club running Monday to Friday.
And that’s not all. As April marks Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Westcroft Leisure Centre will be hosting a special event supporting those living with Parkinson’s. The Phoenix Centre has launched a new community café, creating an informal space for residents to connect. Over at David Weir, new Men’s Walk and Talk sessions kicked off on 7 April and are now running weekly — promoting physical health and mental wellbeing through social walking groups.
Councillor Christopher Woolmer, Sutton Council’s Lead for the Environment, said: “Our Everyone Active-run leisure centres are more than just places to exercise. They are lively and welcoming community hubs that support local talent, promote wellbeing, and offer inclusive opportunities for all ages. I’m proud of the range of activities available and encourage everyone in Sutton to get involved.”
