This follows the decision of the Council in principle to revise the leases and remove from the Trust the full repairing liability for the buildings and major plant. Negotiations have been ongoing for some time whilst both organisations dealt with the realities of their respective difficulties.

A position has been reached where both organisations can agree to a revised partnership for this “not for profit” service.

The two widely used indoor leisure facilities for the community will remain in operation for the1.2 million customer visits each year.

The Horizon Leisure Trust Board agreed at their meeting on December 7th to withdraw their pending decision to surrender the leases. Thus the service continues at Havant Leisure Centre and at Waterlooville Leisure Centre, both notable for their swimming pools and health clubs.

Councillor Tony Briggs and Chairman of Trustees Peter Crane each led their teams throughout the negotiations and have both expressed their appreciation of the efforts of their colleagues and their staff in dealing with the various complex issues of the partnership.

After the normal Christmas period major maintenance closures at both Centres, there will be a gala day at Havant Leisure Centre on Saturday January 6th to jointly celebrate the Centres 25th Birthday; the end to uncertainty and the start of the new partnership.