Belgravia Leisure expands in New Zealand with Auckland Council pool contracts

Melbourne-based Belgravia Leisure is preparing to expand its facility contract management operations into New Zealand with the management of four facilities for Auckland Council.

From 1st July, Belgravia Leisure will take over the management of Auckland’s Franklin Sport, Swim and Fitness Centre; the Mt Albert Aquatic Centre; Pukekohe’s Jubilee Pool and Waiuku’s Whiteside Pool.

Franklin Local Board Chair Andrew Baker says the board decided after a recent procurement process that Belgravia would best support the board’s priorities and aspirations.

Baker explained “this contract provides ratepayers better value for money while maintaining and enhancing existing services.

“There is also a demonstrated commitment to boosting health and wellbeing in our communities, with investment in major upgrades to the design and layout of facilities, new equipment, and a boost to swim, sports and fitness programmes."

“We look forward to working with Belgravia to build on the efforts of current managers, Community Leisure Management, and encourage greater use of our wonderful facilities.”

At the Mt Albert Aquatic Centre, which is currently closed for $3.2 million of repairs caused by leaky building issues, Belgravia Leisure has been drawn into a debate about payment of a ‘living wage’ to staff.

Belgravia Leisure Chief Executive Nick Cox told the New Zealand Herald that the company would by higher wage rates than the previous management company, based on "growing the business" at each site.

Cox stated “we are projecting significant increases in revenue."

Commenting on the change in management, Cox added “local families and communities can expect a seamless transition and we are committed to upholding existing arrangements with members as well as investing in major upgrades to the design and layout of facilities, new equipment and a boost to swim, sports and fitness programs.

“We are passionate about connecting community to leisure so we value the knowledge of the Franklin community and are excited about developing facilities and services that are relevant, beneficial and responsive to the community needs.”

Belgravia Leisure has been awarded five-year contracts to operate Franklin Sport, Swim and Fitness Centre, the Jubilee Pool, and the Whiteside Pool.

The Mt Albert Aquatic Centre is owned by the Mt Albert Grammar School Community Swimming Pool Trust and will be managed by Belgravia Leisure under the supervision of Auckland Council.

Image shows the Franklin Sport, Swim and Fitness Centre.

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