Plans to transfer the management of Southwell Leisure Centre have been approved, as part of a partnership arrangement that will protect the district’s leisure provision in Southwell.

Members of Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Leisure and Environment Committee unanimously approved in principle, the proposals to transfer management from the Southwell Leisure Centre Trust, which would be managed through the Council’s leisure company, Active4Today. This is subject to the financial arrangements being approved by Policy and Finance Committee on April 1, 2021.

Currently, the leisure centre is operated as a trust with support from Newark and Sherwood District Council and Active4Today. Open since 1965, Southwell Leisure Centre was established with the Charities Commission and started with just a single stand-alone 25 metre swimming pool.

Supported by investment from the district council, the facility has grown to a fully comprehensive leisure centre offering a full complement of sporting activities, from squash courts to a sports hall, studio, fitness suite and changing rooms.

The council and the trust are equally committed to providing high quality leisure services that meet local needs and the change in management will both maintain and improve leisure facilities in Southwell area of the district while also protecting the charitable objectives of the trust.

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.

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.”

Coun Roger Jackson, chairman of Newark and Sherwood District Council’s 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 per cent 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.”

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