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GLL announces 15-year Hackney partnership
Sports trust Greenwich Leisure (GLL) has signed a 15-year partnership agreement with Hackney Council to manage six leisure centres in the London borough.
GLL has managed the facilities for the past three and a half years on an interim basis and has achieved Customer Service Excellence (CSE) accreditation for all six leisure centres and Quest accreditation for five. One of the facilities, Clissold Leisure Centre, has also been accredited by the Inclusive Fitness Initiative.
The new partnership will see £7.4m invested into developing the facilities.
Mayor of Hackney, Jules Pipe said: "The continued improvement of Hackney's leisure centres has been the result of commitment from staff, significant council investment and a strong partnership with GLL, and I am very pleased that this collaboration will continue.
"Under this successful partnership we have raised the standard of our leisure facilities to offer more choice for participation in physical activity regardless of age, interest or ability.
"This has been demonstrated by an increase of visits which saw Hackney's leisure centres attract over one million visitors last year; while overall customer satisfaction with sports and leisure facilities has also improved significantly over the past two years."
Chris Symons, director of development for GLL, added: "We are delighted to have been given this opportunity to continue our partnership with the Council.
"We already have a very effective partnership and deliver some of the best leisure services in the capital. This new long-term arrangement gives us the opportunity to further enhance the buildings, the service and its relevance to the local community.
"As a Social Enterprise we are also committed to maximising the sporting, health and employment opportunities the Olympics may bring to the borough, these are very exciting times for all involved."
Photograph: Clissold Leisure Centre swimming pool