Leisureland, Galway City’s premier fitness, leisure and events venue, has been awarded the ‘Outstanding National Quality Award 2027’ and the ‘Sustainable Project/Initiative Award 2027’ at the National Quality Standard Awards, which took place Friday, 6 November 2026, at The Johnstown Estate, Co. Meath.
Leisureland, based in Salthill, is a publicly owned multi-use sports, fitness, and events facility owned by Galway City Council and operated by Galway Salthill Fáilte CLG.
Over the past 25 years, the National Quality Standard Awards have become the only industry-specific awards for the leisure, health and fitness sector in Ireland. Organised by Ireland Active, the awards are among the most sought-after and respected accolades in the industry, recognising excellence across three levels of achievement and celebrating the outstanding work being carried out by organisations in the sector.
Achieving both awards on a national stage represents a significant milestone for Leisureland and reflects Galway City Council's commitment to delivering the highest standards of operational excellence, customer experience and sustainability at Galway's flagship leisure facility.The two awards recognise excellence in both the operation of the facility and its commitment to sustainability.
- The National Quality Award recognises the highest standards in customer engagement, human resources, safety, and hygiene within the leisure facility.
- The Sustainable Project/Initiative of the Year Award recognises Leisureland's strong commitment to sustainability through the delivery of innovative projects and initiatives. The award provided an opportunity to showcase the significant steps being taken to reduce environmental impact, improve sustainability performance and introduce more sustainable practices into the operation of the facility, both now and into the future.
Ian Brennan, Facility Manager said, “We feel honoured by Leisureland’s National Achievements. Receiving the Sustainable Project/Initiative of the Year Award is huge in that we were competing with all the Leisure Facilities in Ireland. I would like to thank all Leisureland Staff members who contributed so admirably to achieving these awards. Also, Galway City Council Energy team, who helped develop the strategies and projects to make Leisureland a sustainable facility and we look forward to a bright future.”
Cllr Peter Keane, Chair of Galway/Salthill Fáilte Company Limited, which operates Leisureland, said, "On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to see Leisureland receive both the Outstanding National Quality Award and the Sustainable Project/Initiative Award from Ireland Active. Achieving national recognition in both quality and sustainability is a significant milestone. The Board is immensely proud of this achievement and of the role Leisureland continues to play in supporting the health, wellbeing and quality of life of our community. We congratulate the entire team on this well-deserved recognition."