THE NEW firm which has taken over the operation of three leisure centres in Ryedale has announced plans to extend the gym facilities.

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

The company has applied for planning permission to install a new 40-station gym at the Pickering pool, with approval expected to be granted by the council's planning committee last night (Tuesday).

Part of the existing changing room will be incorporated into the gym along with a pre-fabricated building extension to the front of the pool.

In addition, the gym at Derwent Swimming Pool is to be refurbished and extended into the existing balcony seating area at the beginning of November with new fitness equipment installed.

Reception areas at both sites will be refurbished and new signs provided.

Martin Miles, area contract manager for Everyone Active, said the company ran 96 centres nationwide, working with 34 local authorities.

"We have a 10 and a half year contract to run the three leisure centres in Ryedale and they all all have lots of potential," he added.

"Our aim is to get more people active more often and as well as the extension plans we will be introducing a new learn to swim scheme and retraining all our lifeguards to a higher level."

Mr Miles said they were also keen to work with local schools, colleges and community groups.

"We will not be successful unless we engage with those in the local area and work with existing sports facilities," he added.

"Our aim is to extend our GP referral scheme as well - we are not just running leisure facilities, we have to work with the local community and residents to help improve their general health."

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: “The council has an integral role to play in helping to improve the health and fitness of our residents.

“ It is hoped the planned investment to provide new and improved leisure facilities will encourage more people to take up sport and exercise.”

Chief executive Janet Waggot, said: "We have to tackle the obesity problem in Ryedale and we have to make sure we have a programme to support that."

For more information visit everyoneactive.com