Previously at-risk Cornish leisure centre now run by community
Friends of Wadebridge Leisure Centre (FOWLC) has taken over the running of the site
Last updated 5th Sep 2022
A community interest company has taken over the running of a Cornish leisure centre, once at risk of closure.
Friends of Wadebridge Leisure Centre (FOWLC) is now in control of the site, previously run by GLL.
Officials say they have been working together since July to ensure a smooth transition, with leisure centre staff busy ensuring normal service for residents continued throughout the handover period.
Emma Tudge, Business Strategist for FOWLC, said they have been "bowled over" by support.
She said: "We are nothing without our community and the Board is incredibly grateful for the many donations received so far to help cover new capital outlay, along with sponsorship support and kind offers of help plus the many words of encouragement from the wider community".
A campaign that included multiple protests was launched, after GLL announced Wadebridge was among the sites it could not afford to run.
FOWLC was confirmed as the new operator in July - and the group is now focussed on how to deliver and sustain the centre.
Emma Tudge continued: "Rapidly rising energy costs are an issue for all of us and FOWLC has been forced to rethink its budgets, timescales and business plans.
"We're planning to launch a Crowdfunding campaign to raise £1m for the vital capital investment needed to transform the swimming pool and sports centre into a sustainable energy-efficient community-focused hub for all ages and abilities.
"We aim to future-proof the centre, preserving it for generations to come and our plans could become the blueprint for other centres facing similar challenges.
"This is an exciting time with a new website and booking app in development, new fitness classes and swimming lessons added to the existing timetable, and an official opening event planned for 17th September where there will be taster events on offer".
Scott Tudge, FOWLC's new Chief Operating Officer, said: "We are especially grateful to the Wadebridge Centre staff who have been ensuring that normal service continues, despite almost 12 months of uncertainty, and are delighted to report that they have chosen to transition across with us and are feeling much more optimistic about the future.
"We are already supporting new qualifications for existing team members, along with an application for an apprenticeship by a new recruit".
James Curry, Head of Service for previous operator GLL said: "I am delighted with how the transfer of services from BETTER to FOWLC has progressed.
"Clearly the last year has been very challenging for everyone involved with Wadebridge Leisure Centre. However, a special mention needs to go to the staff team, who have worked tirelessly to ensure normal service has been maintained, their ongoing commitment to GLL, the centre and the community has ensured business continuity and a strong recovery from Covid over this time, this will give the new operator a good platform to build on.
"On behalf of 'BETTER' I would like to thank our staff and customers for their loyal support over the last five years and I wish Emma, Scott and the wider director team the very best with the centre and hope all their hard work and efforts are rewarded in the coming months and years".