Bumper summer of sport coming to South Lanarkshire

Published: Friday 22 May 2026

Kenny-McLean-Getty-Editorial

Children and young people across South Lanarkshire will be able to enjoy a summer of free sporting activities.

The council has received a one-off, single-year investment of more than £700,000 from sportscotland.

A programme of events has been agreed in conjunction with South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture, providing inclusive opportunities for children and young people aged 3-26 to get active, stay active and improve their lives, with a particular focus on reducing barriers to participation and addressing poverty-related inequality.

World Cup-inspired football sessions and Commonwealth Games themed multi-sports events will be on offer, capitalising on the two huge sporting events set to grip the nation over the coming months.

Other sports available include everything from ice skating and golf to kayaking, abseiling, water sports, and camping. James Hamilton Heritage Park in East Kilbride will offer boating activities and education sessions with raft building, water activities and water safety sessions.

A number of employability opportunities, including lifeguards, swim teachers, dance leaders and lead sports coach will be available, along with leadership enhancement initiatives.

Executive Director of Community and Enterprise Resources, Kevin Carr, said: “This summer is set to be a hugely exciting one in the world of sport, with the men’s national team qualifying for the World Cup for this first time in almost 30 years.

“With the Commonwealth Games also taking place on our doorstep, there’s never been a better time for young people to get inspired and involved with sport.

“We are offering a wide range of activities with something suitable for everyone and this investment offers pathways into sustained participation in school, club, and community sport.

“I am particularly pleased about the inclusive nature of the programme, along with the many educational and employment opportunities.”

The programme of events will be more widely publicised when all details are finalised. The report, agreed at the council’s Executive Committee, can be found on the council’s website.