Birmingham Community Leisure Trust (BCLT) and its managing agent, Serco Leisure, have been appointed as the new operators of Alexander Stadium, one of the UK’s premier athletics venues. This appointment follows a 15-year agreement signed in 2015 between BCLT, Serco Leisure, and Birmingham City Council (BCC), under which BCLT and Serco Leisure manage nine leisure centres across the city. The operation of Alexander Stadium is an addition to this contract.
The partnership between BCLT, Serco Leisure, and BCC aims to enhance the stadium’s legacy as a vibrant hub for sport, fitness, and community engagement. Councillor Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, emphasized that the stadium continues to serve as a world-class sports venue, delivering major sporting events while also providing opportunities for local sports clubs and individuals of all ages to access high-quality facilities and stay active.
Simon Lane, Managing Director for Serco Leisure, expressed pride in the partnership, highlighting the upcoming European Athletics Championships scheduled for August 2026, marking the first time the UK will host this prestigious event. He noted that over the next 12 months, BCLT and Serco Leisure will work closely with BCC to support the delivery of the championships. Lane also pointed out that in 2024, the nine centres operated by Serco Leisure and BCLT brought in over £14 million in social value for the local community.
The stadium’s redevelopment, completed in 2022, included a £72 million investment to upgrade the facility for the Commonwealth Games. The permanent seating capacity was increased from 12,700 to 18,000, with the ability to expand to 40,000 for major events. The venue now boasts a world-class athletics track and has become a key location for various sporting and community activities.
In addition to hosting major events, Alexander Stadium serves as a training base for athletes and is home to local sports clubs, including Birchfield Harriers. The venue also offers facilities for community use, contributing to the promotion of physical activity and well-being in the region.
The appointment of BCLT and Serco Leisure as operators of Alexander Stadium signifies a continued commitment to fostering a strong sporting culture in Birmingham and ensuring the stadium’s role as a central asset for the city’s residents and visitors.
