Council extends contract for leisure services

Torridge District Council has announced an extension of its contract with Active Torridge to manage its Leisure Centre Services until 2032. 

Since taking over in 2022, Active Torridge has surpassed the ambitions set out in its initial business plan, despite challenges posed by rising energy costs and inflation.

Membership levels have steadily increased across existing facilities in Northam, Holsworthy, and Great Torrington, prompting the council to approve plans for a fourth site at the Old Bideford Town Hall and Library. 

This new centre, slated to open in early 2026 after refurbishment, aims to address current capacity issues by accommodating more members and expanding its target market.

The historic Bideford Town Hall and Library, a Grade II Listed Building dating back to the 1880s, has largely been underutilised in recent years. 

After serving as administrative offices for the Council and providing library services for Devon County Council, the premises have seen little investment. 

The forthcoming refurbishment programme will secure the building’s long-term future while introducing state-of-the-art gym facilities and commercial office spaces in the heart of Bideford.

Chris Keeble, Chief Operating Officer of Active Torridge, expressed enthusiasm for the contract extension, stating: “We are delighted that our contract has been extended to 2032.  By being able to plan long term we can manage future growth more effectively, ensuring that Active Torridge can meet the needs of the community. By adapting the site at the Old Library, we will be able to deliver a state-of-the-art gym that meets public demand.  Many of our fitness classes are oversubscribed and as membership levels continue to grow, by offsetting popular classes from existing Active Torridge facilities we will have more space to offer a greater range of sessions and classes.”

Councillor Ken James, Leader of Torridge District Council, said: “This is a very exciting time for the future of leisure services in the district.  Active Torridge has done a fantastic job during the first two years of its contract.  We are now looking forward to being able to take a longer-term view of the strategy for leisure provision in Torridge, so that we can continue to grow and expand our services to suit the needs of our communities.  We hope that by adding a new Centre in such an iconic and accessible building as The Old Library in Bideford, we will be able to provide good value for money local services to meet growing demand.”