The council has chosen not-for-profit social enterprise, GLL, London's leading leisure centre operator, to manage the Lillie Road fitness centre, in Fulham, and the Broadway squash & fitness centre, in Hammersmith. GLL has now taken over the running of the two centres, which will remain in council ownership, after a contract was exchanged last week.

The new contract means an extra £2 million will be spent by GLL on refurbishing the centres. GLL's investment will ensure major refurbishment of the fitness centres, including the dance studios and changing rooms; provision of new state-of-the-art equipment; personalised inductions and fitness programmes for all members and an extensive programme of group sessions, including up to 30 classes per week in yoga, pilates, step and aerobics.

The refurbishment work will take place at Broadway squash & fitness centre from mid-spring to early autumn. Work at Lillie Road fitness centre is due to start early next year.

Education deputy, Cllr David Williams, said: "The council will continue to set prices for the facilities, with a guarantee that full public access at affordable prices will be retained." The Lifestyle Plus concessionary scheme will be guaranteed, while pay & play schemes and full monthly memberships will be also be available.

GLL is a not-for-profit organisation that currently operates more than 30 leisure centres in partnership with several local authorities across London and the south east. GLL chair, Chris Symons, said: "Over the next two years, the Lillie Road fitness centre and Broadway squash & fitness centre will undergo substantial refurbishment to ensure that facilities are modern and high quality and continue to meet the needs of the residents."

"The partnership between Hammersmith & Fulham Council and GLL will bring local services and social enterprise together to deliver inclusive, relevant and high quality leisure facilities for the borough, which will rival and exceed those of privately-run fitness centres. We look forward to working in partnership with the council to positively contribute to the commitment to promote equality and improve the quality of life for all its citizens."

GLL Web site

HF council Web site