Dumfries gym combines community impact with climate action
A grassroots sports club in Dumfries is proving that community wellbeing and climate action can go hand in hand. Southwest Amateur Boxing Club, founded in 2023 by local coach Ross Phillips, has upgraded its facilities with energy-efficient LED lighting, thanks to a £3,000 Climate Resilience Grant secured with the support of Business Gateway.
Since opening its doors just over a year ago, the club has become a hub for inclusion and fitness. Welcoming participants from ages 7 to 60, Southwest Amateur Boxing Club runs sessions for all abilities and backgrounds. Unlike professional boxing, most activities are non-contact boxing and emphasise confidence-building and resilience training.
Inclusive ethos
At the heart of the club’s ethos is accessibility in sport. A successful Boxing for Parkinson’s program delivers tailored sessions supporting both physical health and mental wellbeing for those living with the condition.
For younger members, the club runs a sponsorship initiative that enables children aged 7–16 to participate, removing financial barriers. All membership fees are reinvested into maintaining facilities, buying boxing equipment, and creating opportunities for training progression.
Support from Business Gateway
To bring his vision of a community boxing gym to life, Phillips turned to Business Gateway Scotland in early 2023. Adviser Gary Calderwood guided him through business planning and funding applications using the Planning to Start tool.
This support led to a successful £3,000 Climate Resilience Grant for Net Zero adaptations, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The investment enabled a full LED lighting upgrade, reducing energy use and improving the atmosphere in the gym.
Phillips said: “We’re passionate about using boxing for positive change. With Business Gateway support, we’ve made our gym more accessible and energy-efficient, creating a welcoming community space for all.”
Community recognition
Business Gateway leaders praised the project for delivering social benefits and environmental impact together. Gail MacGregor, Chair of the Business Gateway Board, said: “Southwest Amateur Boxing Club is a shining example of community-led enterprise. Ross has created not just a gym but a place that promotes inclusion, health, and wellbeing.”
A model for sustainable grassroots sport
The story of Southwest Amateur Boxing Club reflects a wider UK grassroots sports movement embedding sustainability in sport. From renewable energy systems to efficient lighting upgrades, small steps are helping sports facilities cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
By combining climate-conscious upgrades with community empowerment, the Dumfries club sets a local benchmark for how grassroots sports clubs can contribute to both wellbeing and the net zero transition.
