Decision details

The Committee considered the Part II report on the Review of the Leisure Contract with Stevenage Leisure Limited (SLL).  The report summarised the commissioned review undertaken in 2016/17 by leisure industry specialists, and outlined highlighted action areas to improve the efficiency of the contract for the Council and progress to date, with a number of opportunities being developed through the new Leisure Innovation Group.

The Committee made the following comments regarding the report:

·           Whilst acknowledging the requirement for SLL to expedite cost cutting and efficiencies and new income generation, a balance needed to be struck between this and providing an effective range of services to the community;

·           Consideration be given to enhancing the food and beverage offer at Fairland Valley Park so that refreshments can be available to the public outside of the hours operated by the café (possibly by pop up food/drink stalls; picnic packages for childrens’ parties, etc.);

·           The Fairland Valley Park Summer Brochure should make it clear which facilities needed to be booked in advance and which could be accessed by turning up and paying – SLL to consider the possible introduction of an online booking system;

·           The Cycle Hub and Trim Trail in the Park should be clearly signposted, and the disabled parking area should be highlighted;

·           The proposals for Performance Indicators relating to Theatre usage by Stevenage residents and plans for potentially increasing swimming pool space (either through a future combined wet/dry facility or “pop up” pool)  were welcomed.

It was RESOLVED:

·           That the outcome of the review and the actions undertaken to date be noted.

·           That the comments and views of the Select Committee, as outlined above, in relation to the opportunities emerging from the joint SBC/SLL Innovation Group, be considered by the Group in its ongoing work.