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New leisure contract announced

Front of Spectrum Leisure Centre

The existing contract, which oversees the management and delivery of leisure services at Guildford Spectrum, Guildford Lido and Ash Manor Sports Centre, is due to expire on 31 October 2025. In preparation, we undertook a robust procurement exercise to secure a future operator from 1 November 2025.

Supported by both internal specialists and external industry experts, the procurement process was designed to ensure transparency, value for money, and the continued delivery of high-quality leisure services for residents. Following a thorough commercial and technical evaluation, Freedom Leisure scored the highest total score and has therefore emerged as the preferred bidder.

The proposed new contract will run for 10 years, with the option to extend for a further five years, offering long-term stability and continuity for the borough's leisure provision.

A report recently published will first be put to the Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee (Services), before being considered for approval by the Executive and Full Council in the coming weeks.

Councillor Catherine Houston, Lead Cllr for Climate Change and Leisure said:

"I am delighted by the outcome of the extremely comprehensive procurement process we have undertaken. As a Council, we remain firmly committed to delivering excellent leisure facilities for our residents. This proposed contract builds on the existing leisure offer in the borough and I look forward to seeing more opportunities for people to take part in leisure and well-being activities over the coming years.  

"Guildford Spectrum is not only the most popular leisure centre in the South East, but also a nationally recognised destination, drawing visitors from across the country. It's no surprise that along with the Lido, which is loved and appreciated by thousands of visitors each year and Ash Manor Sports Centre, the tender attracted significant interest, with some of the largest leisure operators nationally reaching the final stage."

Further updates and details on what this new contract has to offer, including many of the forthcoming enhancements will be shared over the next few weeks.

 Read the new leisure contract (opens new window) 

We're delivering for Guildford. We're building a greener, fairer and thriving community for all. Discover how here: Delivering our strategy - Guildford Borough Council  

Published 1 July 2025.