Blake Morgan advises Richmond and Wandsworth Councils on transition to Leisure Agency Model

Blake Morgan is proud to announce its role in advising both Richmond and Wandsworth Councils on their strategic adoption of the leisure agency model – a transformative approach to delivering local leisure services.

The leisure agency model allows councils to retain strategic oversight and ownership of leisure assets while partnering with expert operators to manage day-to-day services. This hybrid approach ensures greater flexibility, improved service quality, and better alignment with public health and community wellbeing goals. It also enables councils to secure better value for money and more responsive services for residents.

As a new management contract begins for Wandsworth, a £24 million investment is being made to upgrade the borough’s leisure, swimming, and sports centres. Places Leisure was re-appointed earlier this year to operate eight of the borough’s leisure, swimming and sports centres starting this October, following a competitive tender process. Places Leisure will improve, enhance and modernise facilities, launch a new Active Communities programme to encourage inactive residents to move more, and continue to support Access for All, Britain’s best concession scheme, which offers eligible residents 50 per cent to 100 per cent discounts on key leisure services such as gym and swim.

Paul White, Cabinet Member for Environment at Wandsworth Council, said: “We’re committed to helping people move more, feel better and live healthier lives as part of our Wandsworth Moves Together strategy.

Richmond Council is similarly ambitious. Under its ‘Richmond Moves for a Healthier Borough’ strategy, the council is investing in major upgrades to two of its leisure centres, Pools on the Park and Teddington Pools and Fitness Centre. These improvements will be delivered through a new 10-year contract with Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), starting October 2025. The partnership will enhance accessibility and inclusivity, expand fitness, swim and community programmes, and support the council’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030 by making both centres more sustainable and energy efficient.

Cllr Alan Juriansz, Lead Member for Sport at Richmond Council, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome GLL as our new leisure partner.

Blake Morgan has provided legal and strategic guidance throughout the transition process. The firm’s expertise in public procurement, governance, and leisure contracting has helped both councils establish robust frameworks for success. Commercial and Charities Partner Penny Rinta-Suksi, who led on these projects, said:

The leisure agency model is gaining momentum across the UK as councils seek innovative, sustainable ways to deliver high-quality services. Blake Morgan’s recent webinar on the topic outlined seven key takeaways for local authorities, including the importance of clear governance, performance management, and community engagement.

Blake Morgan remains committed to supporting public sector clients in delivering impactful, community-focused services. For more information on the leisure agency model click here. Find out how Blake Morgan can assist local authorities here.