URL: https://democracy.stratford.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4183

Decision Maker: Deputy Chief Executive

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: To grant the underlease and deed of variation.  

Content: To grant the underlease and deed of variation.   To approve the grant of an underlease of the south parcel of Studley Leisure Centre (Pool Road) to Sports and Leisure Management Limited (operating as Everyone Active) in order to reflect the already established operational arrangements, and to approve the associated deed of variation to the existing lease of the north parcel to ensure the two arrangements are aligned, including the linked termination provisions.   The decision is made to formally regularise a longstanding operational arrangement that has been in place since the award of the leisure operating contract in July 2021.   The leisure operating contract, approved by Cabinet in November 2019, clearly envisaged that Sports and Leisure Management Limited would occupy and operate facilities across both the north and south parcels of Studley Leisure Centre. While a lease was completed for the north parcel, the underlease of the south parcel was not executed at that time due to an administrative oversight.   Sports and Leisure Management Limited has nevertheless occupied and operated both the swimming pool (north parcel) and sports hall (south parcel) continuously in accordance with the contract. The proposed underlease and deed of variation therefore do not introduce a new arrangement but instead formalise the position that was intended by the parties and has existed in practice since 2021.   The documentation has been prepared in line with the agreed lease template appended to the leisure operating contract, with terms aligned to ensure consistency between the north and south parcels, including mutual termination provisions.   Regularising the position ensures legal clarity, reflects the contractual intent, and supports the continued effective operation of the leisure centre.   1.   Do nothing – Not recommended, as this would leave an inconsistency between the legal documentation and the operational reality, creating potential legal and governance risks. 2.   Seek separate specific authority outside existing arrangements – Considered unnecessary given that the proposed documentation merely formalises the position envisaged and approved as part of the leisure operating contract. 3.   Approve the underlease and deed of variation (preferred option) – Ensures legal alignment with the intended and established contractual and operational position, providing clarity and certainty for all parties.  

Date of Decision: June 5, 2026