Blake Morgan advises London boroughs on transition to leisure agency model

The law firm said the leisure agency model allows councils to retain strategic oversight and ownership of leisure assets while partnering with expert operators to manage day-to-day services.

“This hybrid approach ensures greater flexibility, improved service quality, and better alignment with public health and community wellbeing goals. It also enables councils to secure better value for money and more responsive services for residents,” it added.

As a new management contract begins for Wandsworth, a £24m investment is being made to upgrade the borough’s leisure, swimming, and sports centres.

Places Leisure was re-appointed earlier this year to operate eight of the borough’s leisure, swimming and sports centres starting this October, following a competitive tender process.

Paul White, Cabinet Member for Environment at Wandsworth Council, said: “We’re committed to helping people move more, feel better and live healthier lives as part of our Wandsworth Moves Together strategy.

“This new contract supports this goal, ensuring residents benefit from excellent, modern facilities both in our centres and out in the community, especially with the new £24m investment in long over-due improvements over the next four years.”

Under its ‘Richmond Moves for a Healthier Borough’ strategy, Richmond is investing in major upgrades to two of its leisure centres, Pools on the Park and Teddington Pools and Fitness Centre.

These improvements will be delivered through a new 10-year contract with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), starting October 2025. The partnership is intended to enhance accessibility and inclusivity, expand fitness, swim and community programmes, and support the council’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030 by making both centres more sustainable and energy efficient.

Cllr Alan Juriansz, Lead Member for Sport at Richmond Council, said: “We’re delighted to welcome GLL as our new leisure partner.

“Their experience and community-focused approach will help us deliver modern, inclusive facilities that support healthier lifestyles and bring people together. The investment in the new arrangements is a key part of our commitment to improving wellbeing across the borough.”

Blake Morgan has provided the two councils with legal and strategic guidance throughout the transition process in areas such as public procurement, governance, and leisure contracting.

Commercial and Charities Partner Penny Rinta-Suksi, who led on these projects, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with these councils on their important projects. They have two excellent operators and are utilising the new agency model to secure more value for money to their constituents. The team have really enjoyed working with the council team.”

Blake Morgan said the leisure agency model is gaining momentum across the UK as councils seek innovative, sustainable ways to deliver high-quality services.

See also: Blake Morgan’s recent webinar on the topic of the leisure agency model outlined seven key takeaways for local authorities, including the importance of clear governance, performance management, and community engagement.