Work to begin on shaping future of leisure services in Cheshire East

Work is set to begin on shaping the future of leisure services across Cheshire East, with plans to explore how they are delivered from 2029 onwards.

The council’s leisure services contract, currently delivered by Everybody Health and Leisure, is due to expire in April 2029.  

The council now has the opportunity to review its leisure services to ensure it continues to support residents’ health and wellbeing while being affordable in the long term.  

Following approval by Cheshire East Council’s Cabinet today (4th June), the council will now invest in specialist external expertise to carry out a full review of its leisure estate and put forward options based on evidence for how it could be run in future.  

The review will consider factors such as how well-used each site is, the health needs of the local population, and the investment in the sites that’s needed. 

The review includes 14 sites across Cheshire East, ranging from swimming pools and fitness centres to sports hubs and community facilities.  

Councillor Rob Vernon, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for Communities and Engagement, said:

“The council's leisure services provide an essential service to all our communities throughout every stage of life, from Discovery Ducklings swimming lessons to Move It or Lose It fitness classes - right across the borough. 

“It's vital that we have the right facilities, in the right places, that not only benefit public health and wellbeing but also provide a place for people to come together as a community. That's what this is about - making sure we get the services we need, where we need them, at value for money for you as the taxpayer.” 

The council will consult with residents and stakeholders before bringing a final recommendation back to Cabinet for a decision.