Mansfield leisure centre could be sold off to 'community organisation'

Council leaders say transferring the operation of the leisure centre, on the Ravensdale estate, into private hands will make it ‘more sustainable’ in the long term.

Any community groups and organisations interested in operating the centre are now being asked to submit their business plan to the council.

Andy Burgin, portfolio holder for environment and leisure, said: "This is rare opportunity to re-assess the way we manage our facilities and bring about changes that could be genuinely beneficial in terms of reducing health inequalities in areas like Ravensdale, where the centre is based.

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"By having a recreation centre run by the community, for the community, it could provide a more targeted approach to help more local people lead active, healthy lives."

Currently, the council operates the facility as part of its leisure contract through Mansfield District Leisure Trust and services are delivered by Serco Leisure Ltd. This contract expires on April 30, 2022.

Simon Bailey, Serco Leisure’s managing director, said: “If a suitable operating partner is found by the council, Serco Leisure and the Mansfield District Leisure Trust will carry out a smooth handover, focusing on the needs of our on-site team and the customers we have served since taking control of the facility in 2012.

“If no suitable partner organisation comes forward, we will continue operating the facility until the end of our contract in April 2022, providing the same high level of customer service people have become accustomed to from Serco Leisure and the Mansfield District Leisure Trust.”

Council leaders say the benefits of a ‘community asset transfer’ include decision making at a neighbourhood level and the opportunity for the community to take a leading role on the future regeneration of the area.

Business plans by interested parties are expected to be considered by the council in September and decision made in November.

Contact Jayne Cox or Marie Clay at [email protected] to express an interest or to request further information.