By Lesley Walsh
LEISURE services in the Ards area have received the highest accolade the industry can bestow after securing Quest Excellent Accreditation.
Both Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex and Comber Leisure Centre are celebrating after receiving the top award in the field of leisure.
The accreditation follows a comprehensive annual assessment process designed to evaluate how leisure facilities deliver high-quality, inclusive and customer- focused services that support active and healthy communities.
As part of the assessment, an independent Quest assessor spent a day at each centre reviewing operations, processes and planning arrangements, speaking directly with staff and hearing feedback from customers.
The awards were secured following visits to each leisure complex by anonymous ‘mystery visitors’, who also contributed to the overall accreditation outcome.
Quest is the leisure sector’s leading quality assurance scheme and provides an independent assessment of the effectiveness and quality of services, helping organisations to benchmark performance and drive continuous improvement.
The seal of approval by the industry standards body has been hailed by deputy Mayor of Ards and North Down, James Cochrane.
“We are delighted that both Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex and Comber Leisure Centre have achieved Quest Excellent Accreditation,” he said.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work, commitment and professionalism of our teams, who strive every day to provide exceptional experiences for our customers and create welcoming, inclusive environments where people can improve their health and wellbeing.”
The council said the achievement reinforces the commitment of both facilities to delivering outstanding services, supporting healthier lifestyles and ensuring customers receive the best possible experience every time they visit.
“This commitment is at the heart of the borough’s Getting Active, Staying Active Leisure Strategy, launched in February 2026, which seeks to provide more opportunities for residents to participate in active leisure and experience the physical, mental and social benefits of leading active lifestyles,” said a council spokeswoman.
