THE Vale of Glamorgan Council has appointed a private sector partner to run its leisure centres for the next ten years - and agreed that £3 million will be invested in the facilities.

At a meeting yesterday afternoon (Wednesday), it was agreed by the Vale Cabinet that Parkwood Leisure Ltd, which operates Cardiff International Pool, would become its preferred partner.

The decision followed a procurement period involving discussions with four potential partners.

And the deal means that although the leisure centres remain the responsibility of the council, Parkwood will operate them for a minimum of ten years with a possible extension for a further five years.

The money identified for investement in the centres will lead to improvements to the buildings themselves and to facilities at all sites – Penarth, Barry, Cowbridge, Llantwit Major and Holm View Leisure Centres, and Colcot Sports Centre.

A Vale Council spokesperson said: “This is good news for the users of the council’s leisure centres, and for the staff.

"It will mean that all the existing leisure centres will continue to operate, even though the proposed contract has achieved the savings required.

"The level of the service is guaranteed for the next ten years and this will open up real opportunities for improvements to the facilities for the public, and staff career progression.”

Cllr Anthony Ernest, cabinet member for tourism and leisure at the Vale Council, added: “Parkwood Leisure Ltd has substantial experience throughout the UK in operating leisure centres, including the Cardiff International Pool.

"I am pleased that, following a lengthy procurement process, the proposal guarantees the future of all the council’s leisure centres.”