Places for People to oversee major investment projects as part of new contract wins

Places for People Leisure – formerly DC Leisure – has acquired two 15-year contracts to manage and transform leisure facilities on behalf of Mid Sussex District Council and Wycombe District Council.

The new partnership with Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC) commences on 1 July and will see a multi-million pound investment across The Triangle, Kings and Dolphin leisure centres, with all upgrades scheduled for completion by the end of 2014.

MSDC isn't disclosing the exact figure for the investment, but says it will run into the millions, with all free centres to receive brand new gym equipment and renovations, while swimming will be made free to under-eights in a bid to encourage activity among children.

The MSDC portfolio Places for People will inherit from previous operators Freedom comprises the aforementioned leisure centres in addition to Martlets Hall, Clair Hall, and outdoor facilities at Mount Noddy, Victoria Park Splash Pad and Cuckfield Recreation Ground Paddling Pool.

Meanwhile, the partnership with Wycombe District Council (WDC) will see Places for People Leisure operating a brand new, multi-million pound sports centre in High Wycombe.

Opening to the public in autumn 2015, this energy efficient facility will replace the current Wycombe Sports Centre operated by Parkwood. It will include a 150-station gym, eight lane swimming pool with moveable floor, learner pool, 12 court sports hall, two squash courts, two multi-use studios, a climbing wall, health suite and café.

Places for People will also manage Risborough Springs Swim and Fitness Centre, Court Garden Leisure Complex in Marlow, as well as a new 2G synthetic turf pitch at John Hampden Grammar School on behalf of WDC.

Robin Knight, Places for People Leisure’s business development manager said: “We will be introducing a range of sporting activities and programmes for all ages and abilities. We look forward to working with both Councils and current operators to achieve a seamless transfer of the facilities.”