A NEW firm is taking over the operation of three leisure centres in Ryedale with major investment plans to improve them.

Sports and Leisure Management (SLM) Ltd, operating under its brand name Everyone Active, will take charge of Derwent Pool and Fitness Centre, in Norton, and Pickering’s Ryedale Pool and Northern Ryedale Leisure Centre on October 1 in partnership with Ryedale District Council.

The company said it will be making a significant investment to improve the centres, including the installation of a new 40-station gym at the Pickering pool.

In addition, the gym at Derwent Swimming Pool will be refurbished and new fitness equipment installed.

Reception areas will be refurbished and new signs provided.

Martin Miles, area contract manager for Everyone Active, said that as part of the successful bid for the contract, the firm would also be working with local communities to help people achieve 30 minutes of activity five times a week.

“We are delighted to be starting our Everyone Active partnership with Ryedale District Council,” he said. “Everyone Active will be working with local people to provide the activities that they want to take part in. We will also be introducing our Everyone Active card across the centres and rolling out our Everyone Active online product. This is an exciting time for us all.”

Ryedale District Council announced proposals to appoint a new contractor to run the facilities, taking over from Community Leisure, earlier this year.

Councillor Linda Cowling, district council leader, said: “I am looking forward to working with our new providers. It is hoped the planned investment to provide new and improved leisure facilities will encourage more people to take up sport and exercise.”

Everyone Active’s website – everyoneactive.com – is available from Monday, September 29.