Working in partnership with the Surrey council for the last 31 years, the social enterprise has seen its contract renewed at the Xcel Leisure Complex, Sports Hub and Hurst Pool.

Elmbridge’s leisure facilities attract a million visits per year and offer a wide range of activities including the exercise referral scheme, the Saturday night youth project, cardio and cancer rehabilitation classes, walking football and netball, falls prevention sessions, as well the more traditional gym, swim and fitness programmes.

Places Leisure will invest £6m at the Xcel Leisure Complex to create a new health suite, immersive cycling studio, an extension to the existing exercise studios/fitness suite, and a new soft play area. As well as enhancing facilities, Places Leisure reaffirmed its commitment to its concessionary and accessibility policies.

Leisure facilities account for a significant amount of the council energy usage, and in order to meet Elmbridge’s energy reduction expectations, both council and contractor will invest in more energy efficient infrastructure. This will include new heating systems, hydrogen ready boilers, photovoltaic panels, LED lighting, and electric car charging bays.

Councillor Janet Turner said: “We believe this contract will bring many benefits to residents and we look forward to working closely with Places Leisure over the next 10 years to create high quality, affordable and sustainable facilities for residents to enjoy”.

Dan Walker, business development director for Places Leisure, added: “We are delighted to be able to further our partnership... we can bring an even greater community focus and a range of innovative new facilities that the people of Elmbridge can enjoy in a sustainable way.”