Decision details

The Head of Leisure, Parks & Countryside presented his detailed report to Members which provided Members with an update on the progress of the investment programme into Leisure Centres, 3G Pitches, Play Areas, Parks and Heritage and Visitor Attractions, highlighting the improvements in service performance as direct result of the investment.

The officer provided Members with the positive detail in respect of the investment and the outcomes and benefits to such investment for the County Borough.

Members were advised that there has been a marked return on the investment into Leisure Service, with the service already surpassing the targets for membership and retention set out in the Leisure Strategy for 2020.  The Officer continued by advising that there was also  a marked improvement in the performance of Rhondda Heritage Park, with the investment  halting the long-term decline in the facility, and now the management team have been able to present an offer that has been enthusiastically welcomed by both existing and new customers. It was added that future plans should enable the renamed “Welsh Mining Experience” to become a key tourist destination within South Wales.

The success and popularity of the investment into 3G sports pitches were also provided  as well as the Council’s investment into Leisure and Recreation facilities and visitor attractions.

The Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure & Heritage Services thanked the service for the positive report before Members and spoke of the positive outcomes and benefits of the investment provided in the service for all generations of the County Borough in respect of health outcomes, health and wellbeing as well as strengthening communities.

The Leader commented on the adaption’s made to services to better suit residents and referenced the increase in membership in Leisure Centres and the positive outcomes being witnessed with health goals, reducing diabetes, obesity and access to play areas for younger generations.

The deputy Leader also commented on the strengthening of community cohesion through the service area and commented on the current demands with Netball and the forward thinking approach of the authority.

It was RESOLVED:

1.    To note the progress made with the investment programme into Leisure, Sport, Parks, Play and Visitor Attractions across the County Borough,

2.    To note the significant improvements in service delivery that are a direct result of the investment programme,

3.    To consider future investment priorities for the service as and when funding opportunities arise.