Sheffield City Council has unveiled Everyone Active as the new operator for the city’s sports and leisure venues. This announcement follows a rigorous procurement process aimed at enhancing the quality of leisure facilities across Sheffield.
In a city famous for its sporting heritage, this move promises to elevate Sheffield’s sports and leisure offerings. The decision aligns with the council’s commitment to investing £117m in renovations and upgrades to various venues.
Everyone Active Takes the Helm
Scheduled to take over in January 2025, Everyone Active will manage a range of sports and leisure facilities throughout Sheffield. This includes three golf courses and seven leisure facilities, such as the prestigious English Institute of Sport (EISS).
Councillor Tom Hunt, the leader of Sheffield City Council, commented on the city’s pride in its sporting history. He believes Everyone Active will leverage its expertise to elevate Sheffield’s sporting and leisure landscape further.
The Selection Process
The procurement process was competitive, aimed at attracting top-notch operators. Already, ASM Global has been appointed to manage the Utilita Arena and City Hall, indicating the high standards Sheffield aims to uphold.
This selection resulted from a thorough evaluation, ensuring that the chosen operators can bring valuable experience and improvements to the city’s facilities.
Beyond Basic Facilities
Everyone Active isn’t just taking over standard gyms; they’re also set to manage elite sports venues.
One such venue is Ponds Forge International Sports Centre. This facility is home to the City of Sheffield Swim School and boasts one of the UK’s dozen Olympic-sized swimming pools.
The centre also features Europe’s deepest diving pool, highlighting its standing as a premier location for aquatic sports.
IceSheffield and Beyond
Another key facility under Everyone Active’s management will be IceSheffield. Known for its excellence in figure skating, ice dance, and hockey, it houses British Ice Skating and the Sheffield Steeldogs.
IceSheffield is one of only two UK facilities with two Olympic-sized ice pads, making it a crucial venue for ice sports.
Community Leisure Centres
The management of community leisure centres will also transition to Everyone Active. These include Hillsborough, Concord, Springs Leisure Centres, and Heeley Pool.
Facilities like Graves, Thorncliffe, and Wisewood Leisure Centres will join the roster in 2026, broadening Everyone Active’s influence in the city’s leisure services.
With Everyone Active’s expertise, these centres are poised to benefit from enhanced services and upgraded amenities.
Expertise and Experience
Everyone Active’s rich history dates back to 1987. Over the years, they’ve expanded significantly, now managing more than 220 leisure and cultural centres across the UK.
David Bibby, managing director at Everyone Active, highlighted the company’s humble beginnings. He expressed excitement over expanding their reach, now totalling over 240 facilities.
Future Prospects
Starting January 2025, residents can expect an upgraded experience across these facilities.
This initiative aligns with Sheffield City Council’s investment plans, promising substantial improvements in local sports and leisure offerings.
The appointment of Everyone Active as the new operator for Sheffield’s sports and leisure venues heralds a new chapter for the city’s recreational landscape. With their extensive experience and commitment to quality, Sheffield is set to become an even more prominent hub for both community and elite sports activities.
This transition supports the council’s vision of providing top-tier leisure services and enhancing Sheffield’s sporting heritage. Residents can look forward to upgraded facilities and a brighter future for sports and leisure in the city.
