To receive an update from the Active Torridge Head of Leisure Operations, M Wright.
Minutes:
Chair introduced Matt Wright Head of Leisure Operations at Active Torridge.
The Head of Leisure Operations (HOLO) then provided members with a detailed presentation on the progress of Active Torridge and the three leisure facilities – Torridge, Torrington and Holsworthy.
A summary was provided detailing achievements since taking over the contract from the outgoing operator. The impact of recent refurbishment and repair works were highlighted, along with work to support the TUPE of staff over to Active Torridge.
Some background was provided regarding the challenges that were faced and improvements that had since been put in place. The increase in membership take up, as well as swimming lessons were highlighted as some of the key achievements in the last 12 months.
The HOLO then went on to provide a detailed account of future plans for Active Torridge, along side the recognised risks for the company – Energy costs, aging building infrastructure and managing the capacity at the 3 sites were all noted.
Members were asked for their questions
Following a question in relation to work with groups and clubs in the community the HOLO arranged to contact Active Walk.
Members asked if contingency was in place for the aging buildings and complex pool system. The HOLO confirmed this was in place and went on to explain that, while servicing and management of some fixtures and fittings was managed by Active Torridge, the TDC Property Team were responsible for ‘major plant’ works and Active Torridge met with the team regularly – both informally and formally – to ensure that all obligations are being met.
Following a request for more detail in relation to profitability and viability it was explained that this wasn’t something that could be shared in an open meeting due to commercial sensitivities, but the HOLO confirmed how this was tracked and reported to Board on a regular basis.
Members queried if the viability of the centres was monitored individually. It was confirmed that the accounts are monitored separately for the three sites and then reviewed as an overall picture for Active Torridge. It was further explained that, due to Active Torridge being within the affordable costs it was being monitored as an overall business and this would be consistent with the approach within the leisure sector.
The Head of Legal and Governance (& Monitoring Officer) added that Torridge District Council (TDC) set the service specification and budget for Active Torridge and within this it was asked that all three site remain open and what services to run on behalf of the Council.
Following a further question regarding viability and the cost and cross subsidy of the three sites the Head of Legal and Governance (& Monitoring Officer) responded. It was explained that Full Council had agreed the scope of the budget and the service specification for Active Torridge. The service specification detailed what Active Torridge were expected to provide TDC for the money – this was all being achieved within the budget and all those required services were running. However, it was confirmed that Full Council requested any modification to the service specification would be run through Full Council if the requirements set out were not being met.
The Head of Legal and Governance (& Monitoring Officer) confirmed that Key Performance Indicators were set out within the contract. She also provided an overview of the process in terms of the service specification and the obligations for Active Torridge in reporting back to TDC on their performance, which included attending this committee.
Members asked about the report from UK Active and concerns regarding Energy Support, which is due to end on 31 March. HOLO confirmed that currently Active Torridge do receive this support. It was explained that various organisations are lobbying to challenge the decision to not include leisure going forward and to raise awareness of the impact of the decision.
It was proposed by Councillor Pennington, seconded by Councillor Cottle Hunkin and –
Resolved:
Write to MP and request that this is raised as a concern.
(Vote: For – Unanimous)
During the meeting various members noted the positive feedback being received from the community following Active Torridge taking over and thanked staff for their work.
Specific mention was made in relation to swimming lessons and members asked if the crash course for those unable to swim was still being provided for free and the HOLO confirmed they were free of charge.
More detail was requested regarding the GP referral programme. The HOLO provided members with the background to this provision. He explained the role of the Exercise Referral Leads at GP surgeries and the funding available and how Active Torridge have built strong links locally and built the provision into the service.
Members noted the Section 106 monies that would be available via the larger applications for planning in the area, specifically mentioning Northam.
Councillor Cottle Hunkin and Councillor Langford declared an interest as Board Members for Active Torridge.
Members thanked the HOLO for all that had been achieved within 10 months of Active Torridge taking over and requested that their thanks be expressed to all the staff.