Lead Member – Councillor Rob Macey, Portfolio Holder for Culture & Digital

Lead Officer – Jane Trethewey

REPORT TO FOLLOW

RESOLVED:

1.    That notice is served upon the 3-18 Education Trust by 31st March 2025 of the Council’s intention to transfer operational responsibility for Much Wenlock Leisure Centre over to them at the expiry of the year’s notice.

2.    That the Council continues its engagement in dialogue with the William Brookes School, 3-18 Academy Trust and other key stakeholders to explore options for capital investment to support the shared ambition to retain public use of the Much Wenlock Leisure Centre on expiry of the Council’s revenue subsidy, in support of which the Council will seek to secure capital investment funding to assist in ensuring continued public use and the smooth transition to a new operator.

The Portfolio Holder for Culture and Digital presented the report which outlined savings identified within the authority's medium term financial strategy at Much Wenlock Leisure Centre and presented a summary of the recent consultation exercise, with a recommendation for the future management of the facility.

The local member emphasised the community's deep affection for the leisure centre, highlighting its importance as a hub for residents from Much Wenlock and surrounding areas. He noted the positive and constructive discussions with the 3-18 Education Trust and the collaborative efforts of the Town Council and MP Stuart Anderson. It was noted that the consultation revealed opportunities for improvements, such as better maintenance, refurbishment of showers and changing facilities, extended hours, and enhanced community engagement.

The Portfolio Holder assured members that the Council would continue to work closely with the school during the one-year notice period to explore options for capital investment and improvements. He highlighted the commitment to securing the Centre's future and the positive discussions with the school and other stakeholders.

At this point in the discussion, it was RESOLVED to go into exempt session to share some additional information under exemption category 3 to inform members’ in their decision.

On moving back to open session, it was

RESOLVED:

1.     That notice is served upon the 3-18 Education Trust by 31st March 2025 of the Council’s intention to transfer operational responsibility for Much Wenlock Leisure Centre over to them at the expiry of the year’s notice.

2.     That the Council continues its engagement in dialogue with the William Brookes School, 3-18 Academy Trust and other key stakeholders to explore options for capital investment to support the shared ambition to retain public use of the Much Wenlock Leisure Centre on expiry of the Council’s revenue subsidy, in support of which the Council will seek to secure capital investment funding to assist in ensuring continued public use and the smooth transition to a new operator.