New deal for leisure provider

A LEISURE centre services provider, which runs the Henley leisure centre, has had its contract with two district councils extended until 2029.

South Oxfordshire District Council extended its contract with Better, which has delivered leisure services at centres across the district for several years.

It also serves Vale of White Horse, and since 2014, it has operated under a joint contract with both councils. It runs 11 centres across both districts.

The new contract is expected to bring financial savings for both councils, with further investment earmarked for facilities throughout the districts.

The councils opted for short-term contracts due to the Government planning to reorganise councils in Oxfordshire in the coming years.

Counsellor Maggie Filipova-Rivers, leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Better has provided us with a good service for over 10 years and we are grateful for everything they have delivered.

“With the outcomes of council reorganisation still to be decided, it is a sensible option for us to extend the contract for this period of time.”