A new operator is now running leisure services across Bolton after a transfer agreed by the council. The change covers centres, parks and community sessions across the borough.
Active Bolton has taken over the management of Bolton’s leisure provision following a completed tender process. The organisation will act as managing agent on behalf of Bolton Council, overseeing services in leisure centres as well as activities delivered in parks and green spaces.
The registered charity has operated Bolton Arena Community Sports Village for 25 years and now assumes responsibility for sites in Horwich, Farnworth and Westhoughton, alongside Leverhulme Park Community Leisure Centre and the Jason Kenny Centre at Bolton One.
The council said the move is intended to improve access to physical activity and support better health outcomes across the borough. The approach also aims to ensure services remain inclusive and accessible to residents of all ages and abilities.
Facilities remain open with memberships, bookings and activities continuing without interruption during the transition period.
Active Bolton said it will focus on community wellbeing and reinvest any surplus income into local services and facilities.
Neil Hutchinson, managing director at Active Bolton, said: “Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for leisure and wellbeing in Bolton.
“As a locally focused, not for profit organisation, our priority is to support healthier, happier communities by connecting people to high quality facilities and services that are accessible to everyone.
“We are proud to build on the strong foundations already in place and look forward to welcoming customers across all our centres.”
A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: “This is an important step in strengthening leisure provision in Bolton via our agent Active Bolton.
“They will bring a clear community focus and a commitment to reinvesting in local services, helping us ensure residents can continue to access high quality, affordable leisure opportunities close to where they live.”
Active Bolton will bring together a range of services including swimming, fitness, sport and wider wellbeing programmes. As a charitable trust, any surplus revenue will be directed back into facilities, staffing and community partnerships.
Residents have been advised they can continue using their local centres as normal, with further updates expected as new communications and a website are developed.
Woman jailed for life after murdering husband at Prestwich home
Bev Craig pledges Bee Network expansion and fare freeze in Greater Manchester mayoral campaign
Famous Toad Lane Pioneers Museum at risk of closure without urgent funding
A fourteen-year-old horserider beat all the adults to secure a place in the prestigious Horse of the Year Show in Birmingham in October.
Daughter of Bernadette Mcneilly sets up petition to protect children from abusive parents and trauma
Rochdale MP urges Ministers to do 'everything possible' to deport grooming gang criminals
Award-winning Rochdale site manager recognised for quality
New funding to help tackle to sticky issue of chewing gum on Rochdale's streets
Man charged following stabbing in Manchester on 17 June 2026
A £3.7m scheme to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of 302 First Choice Homes Oldham properties in Holts is now underway
Comments
Add a comment