Chichester District Council (CDC) has awarded More Community Leisure Trust (part of Serco Leisure) a 15-year contract to manage and operate their facilities, beginning on the 1st May 2026.
In July 2024, SLC was appointed by CDC to support the procurement of a new Leisure and Active Communities Management Contract for its three leisure facilities and wider community sport and physical activity services. The Council’s key driver for the process was to achieve a financially sustainable arrangement that would deliver high-quality services and improve health and wellbeing outcomes for local communities.
SLC worked closely with the Council’s leisure team to develop a comprehensive procurement strategy. This established clear Strategic Objectives for the new contract and confirmed the full scope of services. Facility‑based and neighbourhood‑based active wellbeing provision was also strengthened to widen reach, help address inactivity and contribute to reduced health inequalities. The procurement strategy also set out a clear approach to key elements of risk share and recommended a procurement route that allowed the Council to test different scenarios through variant bids. These included different contract lengths and investment options using up to £8m of Council funding.
SLC developed all the key tender documents and services specification, supported the evaluation of bids and facilitated negotiation meetings with bidders.
The new 15‑year contract (with extension options) will deliver a significantly improved management fee position. It is underpinned by major capital investment by the Council, enhanced active wellbeing delivery and strong commitments to sustainability, social value and workforce development.
CDC are very pleased with the outcome of the procurement process as shown by this testimonial by Sarah Peyman, Divisional Manager – Culture and Sport, Chichester District Council
“SLC provided exceptional support to Chichester District Council throughout the procurement of our Leisure and Active Wellbeing Management Contract. Their expertise and clear understanding of the sector gave us confidence at every stage of the process. They brought a genuinely collaborative approach, helping us secure a high quality outcome that aligns with our long term ambitions for an active and healthy community.”
If you would like further information on how SLC can support your local authority with its leisure and active wellbeing procurement, please contact us at info@slc.uk.com or call us on 01444 459927