Following a rigorous tender process, leading leisure solutions and equipment provider Pulse has been named Suffolk Coastal District Council’s Strategic Leisure Development Partner for the next 20 years.

The contract – which was awarded on 16^th March and has an estimated possible value of £45m (subject to other local authorities participating) – will see Pulse work with Suffolk Coastal District Council and Strategic Leisure Operations Partner; Places for People Leisure, to develop existing and new leisure facilities and services in the district. The partnership and contract value also incorporates the potential redevelopment, equip and operational support of a number of other facilities within four additional local authorities’ portfolios who were named participants on the tender.

Suffolk Coastal District Council expects to invest between £10 and £20m in its leisure facilities over the next 20 years. Pulse will use its 35 years’ experience and expertise to assess the existing leisure provision in the area and make recommendations on how to improve them. In addition, Pulse will provide Suffolk Coastal District Council with advice, support and proposals on design, funding, strategic planning, marketing, branding and operational best practice, as well as act as the Council’s principal supplier for all building works and services.

Although the lead contract is with Suffolk Coastal, other local authorities were named parties on this procurement and are likely to release information very soon on their own plans to develop facilities and services.

Cllr Richard Kerry, Suffolk Coastal’s cabinet member with responsibility for Community Health, said:

“We were impressed by Pulse’s track record and other facilities that they’ve worked on such as Waterlane Leisure Centre in Lowestoft which is going from strength to strength.

“Our aim is to increase participation in all forms of leisure. It is not just about sport, it is about encouraging people to be more active. We’re looking forward to working with Pulse to develop our strategy and leisure facilities in the area, as well as improve participation and accessibility.”