'A healthier, more active future': Major shake-up in Lincolnshire leisure with new operator confirmed
A major shake-up of leisure services across Lincolnshire has been confirmed, with Parkwood Leisure awarded new joint contracts covering facilities in Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland.
The decision, made by the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership following a competitive tender process, will see Parkwood continue to operate key sites in Boston and Spalding – and, from October 2027, take over the running of several much-used leisure centres in East Lindsey, including Skegness Pool and Fitness Suite.
From April, Parkwood will continue managing the Geoff Moulder Leisure Complex and Princess Royal Sports Arena in Boston, as well as the Castle Sports Centre site in Spalding.
In East Lindsey, Parkwood will assume responsibility for four facilities currently run by Magna Vitae – Meridian Leisure Centre in Louth, Skegness Pool and Fitness Suite, Station Leisure and Learning Centre in Mablethorpe, and Horncastle Pool and Fitness Suite.
Councils say the new contracts will see Parkwood working closely with all three authorities to enhance leisure provision, improve customer experience and support health and wellbeing across local communities. Importantly, minimal change is expected to existing staffing arrangements or day-to-day operations.
Founded in 1995, Parkwood Leisure operates around 80 leisure facilities across England and Wales and has an established track record of working in partnership with local authorities.
The announcement comes during a period of significant investment in leisure facilities across the sub-region, including a £28.3m redevelopment of the Castle Sports Centre site in Spalding, a £14.5m transformation of Boston’s Geoff Moulder Leisure Complex, and the recent opening of the £13.5m Station Leisure and Learning Centre in Mablethorpe.
In a joint statement, councillors Sarah Sharpe (Boston Borough Council), Graham Marsh (East Lindsey District Council) and Gary Taylor (South Holland District Council) said the move marked “an exciting step forward” for leisure services, while also paying tribute to Magna Vitae for its long-standing work in East Lindsey.
Parkwood Leisure managing director Glen Hall said the company was committed to a smooth transition and investing £3.3m over the contract term, adding: “We recognise the vital role these centres play as hubs in their communities and look forward to supporting a healthier, more active future.”