URL: https://stroud.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=331

Decision Maker: Community Services and Licensing Committee

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: This report outlines the planned refresh of gym equipment at Active Lifestyles Dursley, aimed at enhancing the user experience, improving accessibility, and supporting the centre’s commitment to promoting active, healthy lifestyles. The refresh includes the replacement of aging cardio and resistance machines with modern, energy-efficient models, alongside the introduction of new functional training equipment to meet evolving fitness trends. The upgrade is informed by user feedback, usage data, and maintenance records, and aligns with broader service goals to ensure inclusivity, safety, and long-term value for the community.

Content: The Leisure Services Manager introduced the report and advised that it set out the proposal for the refurbishment and gym equipment refresh at Active Lifestyles Dursley. He stated that: The current gym equipment had reached end of life and had been subject to heavy usage. If the Council chose not to replace the equipment, this would lead to equipment failure, safety concerns, declining customer satisfaction and reputational damage. The report detailed a proposal for full replacement of the gym equipment plus essential improvement to flooring, lighting and décor to maintain a modern and welcoming environment for users. The capital costs proposed as part of the recommendation would be funded through borrowing over a period of 8 years with repayments being covered through existing centre budgets. The refurbishment would ensure the Council would continue to meet the growth and demand of the centre and continue to provide high quality health and wellbeing services for communities.   The following responses were provided to Members’ questions: The equipment had previously been bought instead of leased and the proposal recommended purchasing the equipment again. Clarification would be sought from the Section 151 Officer regarding the reasoning for borrowing the funds for the refurbishment instead of using funds from the revenue account. A response would be provided to Members outside of Committee. The procurement exercise for the refurbishment would include arrangements for recycling of old equipment. There were no current proposals for a major refurbishment to the pool however, parts of it had periodically been replaced through general maintenance. The building could not be extended further to accommodate more users. The Youth Services Team, Community Safety and Engagement Officer and Active Lifestyles Team were working with youth clubs to create bespoke activity programmes to encourage activity within the youth demographic.   Proposed by Councillor Boyle, seconded by Councillor Robinson.   Councillor Robinson supported the recommendations and recognised the need to keep the equipment up to standard to retain customers.   Councillor Boyle stated he hoped the allocated budget was sufficient to deliver an important service and facility for the community.   Councillor Hamilton commented on the predicted population growth from the housing development in Cam and facility capacity and the need to identify what else the Council can provide for these residents.   Councillor Boyle concluded that the Council should be ambitious and support the needs of the community.   On being put to the vote, the Motion was carried unanimously.   RECOMMENDED TO STRATEGY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE AND COUNCIL That: a)    £68k is added to the 2026/27 revenue budget for Active Lifestyles Dursley maintenance and b)    £110k is added to the 2026/27 Capital Programme for the proposed gym equipment refresh at Active Lifestyles Dursley, as outlined in the report.    

Date of Decision: December 11, 2025