Fylde Council has selected Places Leisure as the preferred operator for St Annes Swimming Pool, bringing fresh investment and exciting improvements that will benefit everyone who already loves swimming, while creating opportunities to attract new swimmers from across Fylde and beyond.
Places Leisure, a part of the Places for People Group, one of the UK’s leading social enterprises, comes with extensive experience as they currently operate 100 leisure facilities across the UK. Places Leisure will take over operations from 1 April 2026. They bring ambitious plans to enhance the swimming experience for residents and visitors alike, with full details of their investment plans and improvements to follow.
The Council has already committed a minimum of £1.9 million for essential works at St Annes Pool. Additionally, an enhanced investment option is being explored which could deliver more comprehensive refurbishment and potentially enable the reopening of Kirkham Baths. The Council remains committed to bringing Kirkham Baths back into operation if funding allows.
This enhanced approach would benefit both the community and the long-term sustainability of leisure services across Fylde. However, these investment decisions must align with the Council’s wider financial priorities and will be carefully considered alongside the Government’s Fair Funding Review expected mid-December and the Council’s broader financial planning.
Dan Walker, Business Development Director at Places Leisure, said: “We are thrilled to be named as the preferred bidder for the operation and management of St Annes Swimming Pool and to be selected as the Council’s Partner.
“The investment in the facility will allow us to provide more opportunities and improve access for the local community to be physically active. This includes improving access to swimming lessons. Swimming is a skill for life, with over 126,000 children and adults learning to swim with Places Leisure every year and we look forward to bringing our swimming programme to the community.
“Places Leisure is a part of the Places for People Group who provide housing and supported living services in the local and surrounding areas. It is a privilege to now provide a leisure provision in our heartland, further enhancing our commitment to support thriving communities.”
Councillor Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, added: “This is brilliant news for everyone who loves swimming in Fylde. Places Leisure really understand what our community needs, and their plans will deliver swimming provision we can all be proud of. Whether you’re teaching your toddler to swim, improving your fitness or enjoying a social swim with friends, these improvements will make a real difference to your experience.”
The Council recognises the YMCA, which has operated St Annes Pool since 2010, for its long-standing role in providing swimming opportunities and community programmes across Fylde and beyond. We appreciate their commitment over the years and the continuity they have offered to local residents.
Final details of the contract, including any developments at Kirkham Baths, will be confirmed by the end of January 2026 following approval at Full Council. Fylde Council looks forward to working with Places Leisure to deliver improvements at St Annes Pool and, subject to funding, to restore swimming provision at Kirkham Baths.
Current members can continue to enjoy the facilities as usual. The YMCA will continue operating St Annes Pool until 31 March 2026, with all memberships, swimming lessons and classes continuing as normal during this period. Places Leisure are committed to working closely with the YMCA to ensure as smooth a transition as possible, when they take over in April. Members with specific queries should contact the YMCA directly at: https://ymcayactive.org/contact/
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