Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Item Called In

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 16, 2025

Purpose: This report sets out the request approval to spend the capital allocation (agreed at Cabinet in February 2025) for the fit out of Manor Park Gym. The gym is scheduled for handover as shell and core from the developer to the Council in October 2025. Programme of works will be led by the Council's leisure operator, GLL, overseen by Council officers. Fit out to commence as soon as possible once handover has taken place with an approximate fit out timeline of 3 to 4 months

Content: For the reasons set out in this report and its appendices, Cabinet RESOLVED to Agree:   i)  For the £2.1m allocated within the current capital programme, agreed at Cabinet in February 2025 as part of the 2025/26 budget report, to be released, enabling the fit out and associated works to be procured and delivered; and     ii)  To note that Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL) will commission and manage the fit-out programme within the agreed budget available as provided for in the leisure management contract.   Alternatives considered   1.   Do Nothing – capital budget not agreed leaving a vacant space within the new development. Not only could this attract anti-social behaviour but there would continue to be a lack of Council run physical activity provision i.e. affordable gym provision, in the north east of the Borough. The provision of a replacement gym was included in the resident consultation phase for the Greenhill site.   2.  Request GLL agree to vary the contract to reduce the specification of Manor Park Gym fit out to reduce fit out costs. This was rejected as it might have an impact on revenue income at Manor Park Gym. The consequence would then be the management fee would increase to reflect the loss of revenue. Furthermore, under the terms of the Agreement the Council would need to compensate GLL for the loss of predicted profit. If GLL considered the change would materially affect their ability to deliver the Manor Park services, they would be entitled to refuse such a request.