Get your New Year off to a healthy start in Bridgend County Borough

With many people recently making it their New Year’s resolution to either improve or maintain their physical and mental health, the council would like to remind residents that there are many opportunities to achieve their aims right on their doorstep.  

From taking a stroll in Bryngarw Country Park to going for a swim at a Halo Leisure Centre, there are a range of options to suit everyone.

The council’s official leisure partner, Halo, manage the following facilities of behalf of the council: Bridgend Life Centre, Garw Valley Life Centre, Maesteg Sports Centre, Maesteg Pool, Ogmore Valley Life Centre, Pencoed Swimming Pool, Pyle Swimming Pool and Ynysawdre Swimming Pool.

They are currently offering a free seven-day pass, which will allow individuals to access a range of services such as racket sports, gym, swimming, group exercise classes, hydro gym and more.

There are also many more offers available such as discounted membership for 12–24-year-olds, groups and individuals on means tested benefits such as Universal Credit.

Also, as part of the Welsh Government’s Free Swimming Initiative (FSI), under 17’s and over 60’s can swim for free at certain parts of the week. Residents are advised to check Halo’s website for more information on times and locations.

For people that prefer a picturesque walk, Bryngarw Country Park will be just the place for you.

Managed by Awen Cultural Trust in partnership with the council, the park has all the facilities you need for a great day out, including a picnic area, play areas for the children and a newly refurbished café.

With over 100 acres of gardens and woodlands, visitors can walk along the banks of the River Garw or make use of the purposefully designed cycle trail.

Another way for residents to improve or maintain their mental health, is by visiting their local library. Awen manage 11 libraries and a Books on Wheels service on behalf of the council and there is a range of books and services available at all libraires.

For information on libraries in Bridgend County Borough, please visit Awen’s website.