Leisure centre operator goes into administration

The charity running Frome Leisure Centre has gone into administration, with Somerset Council looking to appoint a new operator in the next three months.

Fusion Lifestyle went into administration on 1st April. Professional services company S&W Partners LLP (S&W) was appointed as administrator, and will run Fusion on a temporary basis for three months.

Frome MP Anna Sabine, who has been campaigning over ‘persistent issues’ at Frome Leisure Centre, has launched a petition to show support for the facility.

She said, “I am sorry to hear that Fusion has fallen into administration, leaving Frome’s leisure centre facing yet more uncertainty. For years, residents have endured broken boilers, unusable changing rooms, closed courts, gym issues and cancelled sessions, all while still paying memberships. I’ve repeatedly raised these failures with Fusion and Somerset Council.

“I’m relieved that Somerset Council have stepped in to secure the leisure centre until the summer, but long-term planning is crucial to securing the use of these facilities for our town. I hope other provisions will be found quickly.”

Fusion Lifestyle also operated other leisure centres across the country, including Wells, Glastonbury and Street.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, Housing Revenue Account, Culture and Equalities, said, “Getting another operator on board is our number one priority. These facilities are vital to communities and schools.

“It’s disappointing that the centres are in this situation, but all services will continue until a new operator is appointed. Members should continue to enjoy the gym, pool and other facilities – it’s business as usual. We hope to make the transition to a new contract as seamless as possible.”

For more information on Anna Sabine’s petition, visit https://www.anna4fes.uk/campaigns/support-frome-leisure-centre.