Published: Thursday, 4th December 2025
Cannock Chase Council has approved the appointment of a new operator to deliver its leisure services for the next decade.
The decision was formally approved by Cabinet following a rigorous procurement process.
Three tenders were received, with Cabinet agreeing to award the contract to the highest-scoring bidder.
The newly appointed operator will be responsible for managing and delivering services at:
• Chase Leisure Centre
• Rugeley Leisure Centre
• Fives Pavilion and Sports Ground
• Cannock Park Golf Course
The current contract will end on 31 March 2026, with the new operator taking over from 1 April 2026 under a 10-year agreement designed to provide long-term stability and continued improvement across the district’s leisure facilities.
An intention to award notice will now be issued, confirming the identity and details of the successful bidder.
Councillor David Williams, Portfolio Leader for Community Wellbeing said: "This is a fresh start for leisure services in Cannock Chase. We've invested in facility improvements, and with a new 10-year partnership we can build on that progress. I want to thank the hardworking staff who'll continue serving our communities - their dedication matters. This contract is about delivering facilities and services that support healthier, more active lives for local families across Cannock Chase."
Tim Clegg, Chief Executive at Cannock Chase Council said: “Thank you to all the staff of Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles - you have taught our children to swim, encouraged us in the gym, educate and entertained us, supported our communities and done the behind the scenes work to make all this possible. I am pleased that faces familiar to customers of the leisure centres and our communities will remain in their roles in the new service and we look forward to continuing to work with them.”
Neil Hutchinson, Managing Director at IHL said: “IHL’s Chair and its Board of Trustees are incredibly proud of the achievements the charity has made in the Cannock Chase District over the last 13 years, supporting residents to live healthier, happier, and more creative lives.
“Chase and Rugeley Leisure Centre have both benefited from significant improvements over the years - not just in terms of the buildings but also the range of services and classes now available to everyone, of all abilities.
“We are also extremely proud of the extensive and innovative outreach programmes delivered by our nationally recognised and award-winning Community Wellbeing Team.
“Furthermore, the Trustees and Management Team, would like to thank our dedicated team who have played a pivotal role in supporting the community and many individuals to change their lives for the better, and although we will be sad to leave, we are incredibly proud of the legacy IHL leaves behind.
“The charity wishes the new leisure provider well for the future and are fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition of services and staff, for the benefit of the communities we serve.”