Moving towards appointing new leisure centre operator
Serco Leisure is one of the UK’s leading national operators of leisure centres, destination venues and the national sports centres at Bisham Abbey and Lilleshall, venues where elite and community sport come together. More locally they look after the operation and management of Maidstone Leisure Centre, Mote Park Outdoor Adventure, and Lockmeadow Health Club.
The agreement with Serco Leisure in partnership with Leisure Solutions Community Trust will open the door to multi-million-pound investment in the centres.
Fusion Lifestyle, the current operator, who also manage leisure facilities for councils across the country, has entered into administration. While Fusion may continue operating elsewhere, since learning they may be experiencing financial difficulties the Council has been exploring options to get the best outcome for residents. We have also been working with the other councils affected and we are now coordinating with the administrator, S&W, to agree a handover date to our new operator.
Gary Stevenson, Head of Head of Housing, Health & Environment at TWBC said:
This is great news for the centres’ customers and staff who will soon be benefiting from the wealth of experience Serco Leisure and Leisure Solutions Community Trust has in the leisure industry.
When we first became aware Fusion may be in difficulty we began exploring our options and we have been in positive talks with Serco Leisure and Leisure Solutions Community Trust. Very soon I hope to confirm the date they will take over running the sports centres for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. This will ensure a managed transition and enhanced service for everyone who uses our sports facilities.
Steve Lawrence, CEO of Leisure Solutions Community Trust said:
This is an exciting opportunity for LSCT. We’re delighted to be working with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to support a smooth transition for the borough’s leisure centres in Cranbrook, Paddock Wood and Tunbridge Wells.
Looking ahead, we will be working to build on the important role the three facilities play at the heart of the community, providing high‑quality, inclusive leisure opportunities for residents across the borough and beyond.
There is further information here: Frequently Asked Questions
Fusion/the administrators have created a website to answer questions about the administration process for its customers, you can see this here: SWGroup
If you have any questions not answered in our further information or Fusion’s website please email LeisureCentreQueries@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
