A DEAL to outsource the running of leisure centres across the Redcar and Cleveland area has proved to be a success, according to a council report.

Sports and Leisure Management (SLM) took over the contract in April and has delivered a number of improvements in five centres around the borough.

The council’s cabinet committee heard that £750,000 had been invested in Eston Leisure Centre, £450,000 in the one in Saltburn, Loftus Leisure Centre benefitted from a £50,000 cash boost, while the company has spent £100,000 on Guisborough swimming Pool and gym.

Work is also underway on the development of a brand new leisure centre in Redcar.

A six-month review of the contract was heralded by council leader George Dunning who praised the investment from SLM.

He said: “I think it has been a fantastic year working with SLM and I’m looking forward to working with them in the future. They said they would invest money and they have.

“How many local authorities are keeping their leisure centres open? Not only that but we are building a new one in Redcar.”

His thoughts were echoed by Councillor Mark Hannon, the council’s cabinet member for economic development, said: “I think they are doing a fantastic job since taking over. I just wish other organisations we deal with were as good and easy to work with.”