There is no threat to Thurrock’s three main leisure centres, the council’s cabinet was told on Friday (18 February) evening.
Cllr Lynn Worrall, portfolio holder for Community, Culture and Leisure said that negotiations with Impulse Leisure had secured savings for next year.
There would be changes, she said, but: “We recognise the vital role leisure services plays in our communities and we have therefore sought to make sure we are able to make short-term savings which minimise impact, while looking at future options for the long term development of leisure services.”
She added: “These savings, proposed by Impulse Leisure I must add, are around reductions in expenditure on gym equipment, a reduction in bar and catering staff and the potential closure of the crèche at Belhus Park.
“For example Impulse Leisure is considering changing the management arrangements for catering at leisure facilities in the wake of anticipated efficiencies.
“This will mean that the facilities will remain available by being provided in a more cost effective manner.”
But she added: “We know that short term savings are just that, and it is the future of these services that we need to explore over the coming months. This report sets out our intention to explore further options to help secure these services in the longer term.
“As with the library services there has also been an overview and scrutiny task and finish group who have looked at the proposals and options for leisure services.”
