SOUTHEND’s leisure centre manager looks set to lose its contract with the council following failings to reopen after lockdown.

A report going in front of councillors next week will recommend the council opts to axe Fusion Lifestyle which manages its four leisure centres: Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre; Belfairs Swim Centre; Shoeburyness Leisure Centre; and Chase Sports and Fitness Centre.

The 10-year contract, which ends in June 2025, has an option for a five-year extension but councillors look set to test the market for a new provider instead.

Fusion came under fire last year after it was late to reopen services when national lockdown restrictions were lifted in April – with only one swimming pool reopening immediately when lockdown ended.

Residents had also raised complaints they had been continually charged while services were closed, and had found it difficult to suspend or cancel their contracts.

Councillor Matt Dent said: “For a while now, I have not been particularly pleased with the level of service Fusion has provided.

“We had issues during lockdown with residents finding it difficult to end their contracts and avoid being charged even though the facilities were closed and then since lockdown we have problems with how quickly they have returned to full service.

He added: “I have been disappointed with Fusion’s level of service and I am encouraged by the report, and I think that in the interests of residents in the town, of users of the leisure facilities, it is the best thing that we look to end the contract and find another provider that meets the standards we expect.”

The council is set to continue to provide financial support to Fusion until March 31, with the continued waiver of a contractual management fee

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, the council was receiving a management fee from Fusion.

“The contract also makes provision for a share of profits to be paid to the council, but this has never been realised,” council documents state.

The firm has presented a financial forecast for the financial year 2021/22 to the council which indicates it is 23 per cent down on projections.

Fusion has been contacted for comment.