Leisure Service Delivery

This is published by AudlemOnline because it contains an option within it for residents to reply to the options presented for "Leisure Service Delivery". ADCA is one of the village organisations which would be affected, and it is already in consultation with CEC about the funding of the Tuesday Day Club and other aspects of the replacement of Thornton House.

March 22, 2013

Leisure Service Delivery – Future Options

As part of the authority's move towards becoming a 'Strategic Council', Cheshire East is currently exploring new ways of delivering its leisure services to ensure they remain sustainable in the future and offer residents the best value for money.

This is designed to reduce waste and duplication, drive down costs and represent better value for residents.

Cheshire East values highly its leisure services and currently invests £9m annually in this important area.

However, the authority is keen to reduce this amount for the tax payer – whilst ensuring that leisure and health opportunities continue to play an important role in the lives of residents and wider communities.

A number of options for the delivery of leisure services are being considered, and this – along with the thoughts and views of local residents – will inform the decision-making process.

Some of the options available are:

* The formation of a separate legal entity (arms-length company);
* Tender services to the private sector or existing trust
* The formation of a charitable trust; and
* Transfer elements of the service to another local provider such as town or parish councils.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: "Leisure services are important to our communities, this is why I want to get residents' thoughts on the best way of improving on and enhancing our current offering.

"Research shows that one well-established way of delivering these services, popular with other local authorities, is that of a charitable trust.

"The health and adult social care policy development group also gave their support for the trust model, pending full consultation. They also wished to explore the future role of town and parish councils in delivering some services.

"Any new organisation would acquire new sites, including the planned investment of £13m in Crewe's new lifestyle centre.

"However, we want to hear what residents think about this and I would encourage them to go online and fill in the questionnaire."

Councillor Janet Clowes, Cabinet member in charge of health and adult social care, said: "We realise that leisure services play an important role in keeping our communities fit and healthy, ensuring people live well for longer. This is especially important at a time when local authorities are taking on responsibility for public health.

"We are confident that a third party organisation would be able to deliver leisure services in a more efficient and targeted way, leading to improved services that will also increase health benefits."

A consultation is now underway with more information, including a questionnaire where people can leave their comments, available at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/leisureoptions

Residents can also submit their thoughts via:

* Email – leisureoptions@cheshireeast.gov.uk
* Post: Leisure Options Consultation
Leisure and Cultural Services
2nd Floor
Westfields
Sandbach
CW11 1HZ

The deadline for feedback is noon on Friday, April 19.

Ends

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