Decision details

As a result of the Covid-19 Impact, and in light of a changing economy, the Leisure Centre contract, both with regard to the agreed capital investment and the duration of the new contract have been reviewed to help determine the future financial implications for the Council.

The report sets out a range of options, with differing implications and levels of financial commitment required by the Council for consideration.

At the 4 November 2019 Executive, it was agreed to award a 10-year contract for the management of Fareham and Holly Hill Leisure Centres to SLM, otherwise known as Everyone Active.

It also agreed to the capital investment required, particularly at Fareham Leisure Centre to help deliver improved revenue projections in the tender submission.

As a result of the Covid-19 crisis, and in light of a changing economy, there will be implications for the Council and the contractual arrangements it has with Everyone Active to operate both its Leisure Centres.

As the leisure sector recovers from the closure of its sites during the lockdown period and the potential economic recession in the future, this report seeks to present the potential risks and considers the financial implication for the Council.

RESOLVED that the Executive:

(a)  agrees to proceed with the capital expenditure of £6.81 million to enhance the Leisure facilities at both centres, but particularly at Fareham Leisure Centre;

(b)  agrees the principle of the COVID -19 recovery deal proposed within the report between Fareham Borough Council and Everyone Active up to the amount of £1.83 million to enable the reopening of Fareham and Holly Hill Leisure Centres; and

(c)  delegates authority to the Director of Leisure and Community and the Deputy Chief Executive Officer to agree minor amendments to the deal following consultation with the Executive Member for Leisure and Community.