Fusion Lifestyle, the charity operating numerous leisure centres and swimming pools across England—including several in Somerset and Devon—has entered administration after facing sustained financial difficulties.
The organisation, which manages facilities in regions such as Somerset, Devon, Leicestershire, London, Kent, Buckinghamshire, and Newcastle, cited rising operational costs, decreased government funding, and ongoing post-pandemic recovery challenges as key factors behind its decision. Despite efforts to secure new funding, the charity was unable to find financial solutions to its growing problems.
In response, Fusion Lifestyle has appointed the professional services firm S&W as administrators, effective from April 1, to oversee operations during a three-month interim period. Many local councils have collaborated closely with Fusion to explore viable solutions, agreeing to keep leisure centres open to the public to ensure continuity of services.
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Somerset Council confirmed it has taken action to safeguard leisure venues in the eastern part of the county. Centres in Frome, Wells, Glastonbury, and Street will continue operating for at least the next three months, and Shepton Mallet Lido is scheduled to open as normal in May.
The council emphasized that maintaining access to these gyms and swimming pools is crucial for community health and wellbeing, as well as for local schools. Members are encouraged to continue using their existing memberships, which will remain valid through any new management arrangements.
Staff have been reassured by the administrators that day-to-day operations will proceed uninterrupted and that the majority are expected to transfer smoothly to any new operator.
West Devon Borough Council has meanwhile awarded a contract to Parkwood Leisure to take over leisure services in the South Ham area, including the Meadowlands centre in Tavistock and The Parklands in Okehampton. The council affirmed that memberships and swimming lessons will continue without interruption.
Local officials expressed optimism about a seamless transition to new operators, assuring residents that the leisure venues remain open and available for community use during this period of change.