Adding to the celebration, Deaglan O’Hagan, who leads Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council's Leisure Service, has also been shortlisted for the Outstanding Individual Leadership Award.
The ukactive Awards are among the most prestigious accolades in the UK physical activity and leisure industry. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has achieved finalist status. This year's awards attracted 190 entries across 14 categories, with nominations from organisations across the public, private and independent sectors.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, welcomed the announcement,
"I’m delighted that Crumlin Leisure Centre and Valley Leisure Centre have been recognised as finalists in this year's ukactive Awards. This achievement reflects the dedication of our staff and their commitment to supporting healthier, more active communities. Congratulations also to Deaglan O’Hagan on being shortlisted for the Outstanding Individual Leadership Award. I wish the finalists every success at the awards ceremony."
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has established a strong track record at the ukactive Awards in recent years, securing several notable successes:
- 2022: Valley Leisure Centre, Regional Centre of the Year
- 2023: Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre, Regional Centre of the Year (Wales & Northern Ireland) and National Centre of the Year
- 2024: Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre, Regional Centre of the Year (Wales & Northern Ireland)
- 2025: Arlene McMinn, Physical Activity Hero Award (National Winner)
These achievements reflect the Council's ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality leisure services that support healthier, more active communities and make a meaningful difference to residents' lives.
The winners of the 2026 ukactive Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Birmingham on Thursday 8 October 2026.