NEW managers of Stratton's community hub Grange Leisure will renovate it and help save the parish council more than £150,000 a year in costs.

Parkwood Leisure will run the leisure centre on Stratton St Margaret Parish Council's behalf from July after securing a 15-year lease. The company will receive £850,000 from the parish council at the start of the contract which will go towards internal alterations as a major investment.

In return, the council will be paid a yearly management fee which is expected to save it around £179k a year, which could be used to invest back into the community and reduce the precept. The council offices will move back to Meadowcroft Community Centre.

Coun Stuart Leach said: "Parish councillors, officers and employees are excited about this partnership with Parkwood. In its 125th year in existence, the parish of Stratton St Margaret can look forward further years of top notch, first rate facilities and activities for all at the Grange. The parish council strives to do its best for every parishioner. This partnership with Parkwood will surely enhance this commitment."

Parkwood's director of operations Glen Hall said: “We’re excited to be taking over and are committed to engaging with residents to fulfil our aim of helping communities to be happier and healthier. The local community is always at the heart of everything we do so we're looking forward to executing the planned changes to Grange Leisure Centre. This will enable us to create the best possible service to encourage fitness and social activities throughout the community and wider population."

The parish council will still be responsible for the building itself.

MORE NEWS: Grange Leisure renovation plans change after concerns raised about bar area