2nd April 2026, update
We are still progressing the plan to appoint an organisation to manage the Recreation and Leisure Facilities. Conversations and discussions are underway and we hope to have positive information to share before too long.
We are determined that any proposals that we intend to progress are right for the Leisure Centre members and residents alike, and we want to ensure any proposed arrangements are both long-term and good value for our community.
It all takes time! As soon as we are in a position to share proposals rest assured we will consult all concerned.
9th March 2026
Mythbusting Harleston Leisure Centre and Facilities Management opportunity
We’ve created a guide to answer frequently asked questions and bust any myths about why the Council is undergoing this process, and what the objectives are.
Click here to read the Mythbuster.[/su_note]
2th February 2026
The Council is currently reviewing the responses and are now in the process of assessing the experience, capability, and overall suitability of the interested parties.
Due to current staff shortages, the next stage — the formal issue of the tender documentation — has been delayed. However, preparatory work has continued, and the Council is now focused on establishing whether any of the respondents present an outstanding offer that would justify proceeding directly to the next stage.
Should such an offer be recognised, the Council may choose to move forward accordingly. That said, as the formal tender documentation is complete and ready to be issued, we would still expect any preferred organisation to submit a comprehensive formal proposal. This proposal would be carefully reviewed by the Council, and a meeting will be arranged to provide residents with an opportunity to hear directly from the organisation before any final decision is made by the Council.
Friday 23rd January 2026
We have announced the tender opportunity for the future management of Harleston recreation and leisure facilities inviting experienced leisure operators to submit proposals to assume responsibility of the facilities.
The tender marks an important step in securing a sustainable and high-quality future for our facilities, which plays a vital role in supporting the health, wellbeing and recreation of the local community. The appointed operator will be responsible for managing the facility, maintaining service standards, and developing a programme of activities that meets the needs of residents and users.
Clare Crane, Town Council Clerk said:
“Harleston Leisure Centre is a valued community asset, and this tender process is an opportunity to identify an operator with the expertise, innovation and commitment needed to enhance the offer for our residents, while ensuring long-term sustainability.”
The tender is open to suitably qualified and experienced organisations with a proven track record in leisure facility management. Bidders will be expected to demonstrate how they will deliver high-quality services, strengthen customer experience, encourage participation across all age groups, and operate the facility efficiently.
As part of the procurement process, interested parties will be required to complete and submit a Pre-Qualification Core Questionnaire by 23:59 on 3rd February 2026. Following a review of the completed questionnaires, shortlisted organisations will be invited to participate in the formal tender stage.
A public consultation will take place during the Spring, providing an opportunity to engage with residents and stakeholders, and to ensure the community is kept up to date on the process and future plans for the leisure centre. Further details on how to take part in the consultation will be shared in due course.
Interested parties should submit the Pre-Qualification Core Questionnaire, available here.
The tender process will follow this initial timeline.
Harleston recreation and leisure facilities overview
Harleston Recreation and Leisure facilities are based at the Memorial Leisure Centre, Wilderness Lane, Harleston, Norfolk, IP20 9DD and has been serving the local community for over 30 years.
The facility offers a fully equipped gym, two indoor squash courts, a studio, two outdoor tennis courts, a multi-use games area, indoor changing rooms, a small meeting room and a large social room.
It operates daily with opening hours generally from 6:15am-9:15pm on weekdays, with reduced hours at the weekend. There are various different exercises classes taking place throughout the week, from yoga to martial arts, taught by Leisure Centre team, as well as external coaches. Visit www.harlestongym.co.uk for more information and to view the timetable.
Managed by Redenhall with Harleston Town Council, the facility has over 600 members and employs two full time and two part time contracted staff responsible for day-to-day operations.
