PLANS for a new sports centre in Alton have taken another step forward with the selection by East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) of Sport and Leisure Management Ltd as the “preferred bidder” to manage its leisure facilities from April.

EHDC and Sport and Leisure Management, which operates as Everyone Active, are now working to finalise a deal that could bring new leisure centres to Alton and Whitehill and Bordon, as well as significant improvements to the Taro Leisure Centre in Petersfield.

Details remain confidential because of the commercial sensitivity of the bidding process, and ongoing negotiations are subject to the district council’s agreement of contractual arrangements.

The process began more than a year ago when leisure providers were asked to join the bidding process. Since then, the district council has been whittling down the candidates.

Sport and Leisure Management, which runs more than 140 leisure centres across the country, was chosen just before Christmas.

The award-winning company, formed in 1987, is the UK’s longest-established leisure operator. It works in partnership with 44 local authorities to deliver high-quality sports and leisure facilities and improve the health and wellbeing of communities.

District council deputy leader Richard Millard, who has been overseeing the contract, said: “These are very exciting times for East Hampshire.

“We are now looking forward to working with Sport and Leisure Management to get the best possible facilities both for our residents and our visitors.”

David Bibby, managing director of Everyone Active, said: “We are delighted to be chosen by East Hampshire District Council to manage its leisure facilities in the area.

“We already operate leisure services in nearby Chichester, Fareham and Hart, so it’s fantastic that we’re now being given the opportunity to extend our experience in the area.”

He added: “Our company aim is to encourage more communities to take part in physical activity and, ultimately, live a healthier lifestyle.

“We’re confident this new partnership will develop the leisure provision in East Hampshire and offer a wide range of advanced facilities for local people to enjoy.”