Southwell Leisure Centre transfers management to Newark and Sherwood District Council's leisure company Active4Today
Plans to transfer the management of Southwell Leisure Centre have been approved, as part of a partnership arrangement that will protect leisure provision in the town.
It will transfer from Southwell Leisure Centre Trust to the Newark and Sherwood District Council’s leisure company, Active4Today.
It move, in principle, was unanimously approved by members of the council’s leisure and environment committee.
Paul Handley, chairman of the Southwell Leisure Centre Trust, said: “The pandemic has been a very difficult period and the staff have been magnificent.
“The trustees thank customers for their support, as well as the commitment of management.
“This exciting next phase for Southwell Leisure Centre will ensure the continued long-term provision of high-quality health and well-being facilities for the people of Southwell and the surrounding area.”
Roger Jackson, chairman of the leisure and environment committee, said: “The leisure sector has been hit hard by the pandemic but we are absolutely committed to see it recovering as quickly as possible, ensuring our residents have access to top-quality facilities.
“We have a positive relationship with Southwell Leisure Centre Trust and I am delighted to be continuing this partnership moving forward, ensuring that the facility can be enjoyed for generations, improving the health and well-being of everyone in the area, both now and into the future.
“Southwell residents account for nearly 10% of the district’s total population and it is more important than ever for our residents to adopt a healthier and more active lifestyle.
“Members will still be able to enjoy the same facilities, with the same service from the same fantastic members of staff.”
Southwell Leisure Centre opened in 1965 with only a single stand-alone 25-metre swimming pool.
Supported by significant investment from the district council, the facility has grown to a fully comprehensive leisure centre, including squash courts, sports hall, studio, fitness suite and changing rooms.
The transfer of management is subject to the financial arrangements being approved by the council’s policy and finance committee next week.
Staff from the trust will be transferred to Active4Today under a TUPE agreement, providing continuity as the centre prepares to reopen and the leisure sector recovers from the effects of numerous lockdowns.