Luton Rising has announced a new £13.1 million funding agreement with Active Luton, securing vital investment in health, wellbeing, leisure and library services for the town through to 2030.
The agreement comes as Active Luton celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of partnership with Luton Rising, the Luton Council company that owns London Luton Airport and associated assets for community benefit.
Luton Rising is a significant funder of Active Luton, whose mission is to improve the holistic health and wellbeing of local people, inspire participation in physical activity, and create learning and career opportunities. The renewed commitment will allow Active Luton to plan strategically, enhance its facilities and services, and ensure inclusive, accessible programmes for residents of all ages and backgrounds.
Since 1998, Luton Rising has invested over £190 million into the town’s voluntary, community and charitable sector, with a focus on reducing health inequalities, improving education, cutting crime and supporting sustainability.
Recent analysis by independent consultants Volterra has shown that for every £1 Active Luton receives in funding, it generates more than £7.40 in social return – equating to an estimated £44 million benefit to the local community in 2023/24 alone.
Lawrence Kay, CEO of Active Luton, said: “We are incredibly grateful for our enduring partnership with Luton Rising. Its support has played a vital role in our journey from the very beginning, and has been instrumental in our growth and reach within the community. Luton Rising’s continued support enables us to deliver meaningful impact across the town, helping us to improve health, wellbeing, and opportunity for people across Luton.”
Cllr Javeria Hussain, Deputy Chair of Luton Rising, added: “This new agreement reflects a shared commitment to making a positive long-term difference to the lives of Luton’s residents. The continuity provided by our renewed commitment supports our joint ambitions to keep improving lives through health, wellbeing, and learning.”
Contact InformationChristopher HallChristopher.hall@luton.gov.uk |
Notes to Editors
Photograph: Luton Rising Managing Director Nick Platts and Head of Commercial Operations Linsey Sweet (back row) with Active Luton Chief Executive Officer Lawrence Kay and Director of Finance and Resources Sue Jones (front)
