Serco Leisure, in partnership with Leisure Solutions Community Trust (LSCT), is the new operator of six venues across Tunbridge Wells and Charnwood, further strengthening its growing national portfolio of community leisure services.
The appointment of Serco Leisure and LSCT follows the previous operator of the facilities, Fusion Leisure, entering into administration and has been designed to ensure continuity of service and safeguard jobs.
On behalf of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Serco Leisure and LSCT have taken on the management of three leisure facilities:
· Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre.
· Putlands Leisure Centre.
· The Weald Sports Centre.
On behalf of Charnwood Borough Council, the partnership are now operating leisure centres in:
· Loughborough.
· Soar Valley.
· South Charnwood.
Mobilisation plans have been underway in both regions for a number of months, with teams working to ensure a smooth transition for customers and employees at the six centres. Substantial investment programmes have been announced for both Tunbridge Wells and Charnwood, which will be funded by the local councils and the new operating partnership.
Steve Nelson, Serco Leisure’s Managing Director, said: “These long-term agreements reflect the confidence local authorities have in our ability to deliver resilient, community-focused leisure services. We’re pleased to have been in a position to help both authorities during this period of uncertainty.
“Alongside Leisure Solutions Community Trust, we are committed to providing sustainable, high-quality facilities, backed by long-term investment and a strong focus on health, wellbeing and inclusion.”
Serco Leisure operates over 55 facilities in the UK, including the national sports centres at Lilleshall and Bisham Abbey, as well as Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympic movement.
