Purpose

Officer Scheme of Delegation
The following paragraphs outline the decision for delegated
authority surround the growth and extension of the Arts
Development.
I. Agree to an extension of the current contract with GLL:
Option 3, including the adoption of agency model and community
activation programme.
II. Delegate authority to enter into the contract extension and
decisions regarding the operational implications – including
the creation of any Community Activation Programme to be given to
the Head of Greenspaces, Leisure, and Culture, in consultation the
Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Sustainability, the Chief Finance
Officer and the Strategic Head of Legal & Governance.
The above is taken form the Executive report from May 7th May where
the recommendation was approved

The options have been taken to People and Place board, Members
Oversight Group, Leaders’ meeting and the recommendation
followed at The Executive Meeting in May 2025.

The existing Leisure Operator Management contract with GLL was set
to expire on 31st March 2026, although it had an available 3-year
option to extend from 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2029. Proceeding
with the available 3-year option to extend, ensures continuity of
service provision can be maintained for all three leisure centres
in the borough with additional benefits offered by GLL to our
residents through a community activation programme and introducing
the Agency model, which is the recommended way forward in the
context of Local Government Reorganisation.
1. To guarantee Leisure Centre provision beyond March 2026
2. Stability of delivery during Local Government
Reorganisation
3. Introduction of Community Activation programme increasing the
reach of physical activity and breaking down barriers of
access
4. Adopt Agency model which in turn has potential to increase
income revenue for RBBC.
5. The existing Leisure Operator Management contract continues to
align with the Council’s commitment to deliver the Leisure
and Culture Strategy as outlined within our corporate
plan

Decision

The existing Leisure Operator Management
contract with GLL was set to expire on 31st March 2026, although it
had an available 3-year option to extend from 1st April 2026 to
31st March 2029.
Proceeding with the available 3-year option to extend, ensures
continuity of service provision can be maintained for all three
leisure centres in the borough with additional benefits offered by
GLL to our residents through a community activation programme and
introducing the Agency model, which is the recommended way forward
in the context of Local Government Reorganisation.

Alternative options considered

1. Not to sign the agreement. This is not
recommended as it would cease the Leisure delivery come March 2026
and leave the borough without any Leisure provision.
2. To amend the agreement. This is not recommended as the Executive
agreed to support the extension with the added initiatives to the
current contract.