SLC has published the latest edition of our State of the Public Leisure Sector Procurement Market report, providing fresh insight into a market that continues to evolve at pace. The 2026 update shares what we’re seeing right now across live and recently completed procurements. We explore operator appetite and risk allocation to investment trends, the growing role of active wellbeing, and the rapid expansion of the agency model.
This report is designed specifically for local authorities preparing to procure new contract arrangements. It highlights learning from our recent projects and extensive engagement with national operators, legal advisors, and system partners.
What’s inside the 2026 report?
Current state of the market
What operators are saying about:
– Risk allocation (utilities, maintenance, commercial)
– Appetite for investment
– The rise of the agency model
– Contract length and procurement routes
– Capacity and bidding resource pressures
Case studies from recent SLC procurements
Including Wyre, West Northamptonshire, Cannock Chase, Chichester, Woking and others — highlighting outcomes, investment secured and lessons learned.
Ten key enablers of a successful procurement
A concise and valuable guide drawn from SLC’s deep experience of supporting over 50 procurement exercises
Further support and guidance
Signposts to relevant Sport England resources and details of how SLC can support you
Why this matters 
The operator market is active and competitive, but authorities must strike the right balance of risk and clearly articulate their strategic aims to attract high‑quality bids. Facility investment, the shift towards broader active wellbeing, service redesign, and decarbonisation are major differentiators in current tenders.
The 2026 update helps authorities understand how best to frame their contract opportunity and develop a tender process which secures the very best outcomes for their communities.
Request your free copy and a free 1‑hour exploration session
Local authorities can request a free copy of the report, along with a complimentary one‑hour virtual session with SLC Directors to explore your upcoming procurement or discuss challenges you are facing.
Book your session here
Please note: the report is available only to UK local authorities.
About SLC
SLC is the UK’s leading strategic advisor to local authorities on leisure and active wellbeing procurement and partnering. Since 2021, we’ve supported 19 completed procurements and are currently advising multiple authorities on live projects.
As lead authors of Sport England’s Leisure Services Delivery Guidance and Strategic Outcomes Planning Guidance, we continue to shape sector thinking and national best practice.
We have an unrivalled track record of shaping sector thinking and sharing best practice. This is underpinned by a commitment to promote sector learning and innovation as a B Corp Certified organisation. It is a key driver behind why we’ve developed this report.
For more information email info@slc.uk.com or call 01444 459927