Freedom Leisure has announced that it is to continue to run three of Hasting's leisure centres, Summerfields, Falaise and Hillcrest.

The contract, which was fought for by seven contractors has been retained by Freedom Leisure and the three centres are due to see a minimum investment of £700,000 over the five and a half year contract. Heavy investment at the start of this new contract by Freedom Leisure and Hastings Borough Council will mean that visitors to the centres should see an immediate improvement.

Customers at Summerfields will see significant changes to the pool hall with new ceiling and lighting plus improvements to the changing rooms. Children and families will be able to enjoy even more water fun with new pool toys being added to the small pool. A brand new circuit based gym will be installed to enhance the fitness facilities at the centre. The new equipment is ideal for all customers and programmed gym sessions will be tailored for children, families and older people to motivate even more people to start and stick to a fitness habit.

At Falaise the cardio vascular gym equipment is being replaced with brand new up-to-the-minute kit to give an even better workout experience. In addition the toilets and changing rooms are being upgraded to provide greatly improved facilities.

Jeff Hart, Managing Director of Freedom Leisure said: "The bidding process for these centres was exceptionally challenging and we are delighted to be able to continue working with the Hastings leisure centres. Our partnership with Hasting Borough Council will ensure huge investment for all the sites and we hope that new and regular users of these centres will enjoy the improved facilities over the coming years."

Councilor Trevor Webb, Lead Member for Leisure at Hastings Borough Council, added: "I am delighted that we have been able to continue our partnership with Freedom Leisure. This really is an excellent result for everybody. Our council taxpayers get a good deal, Freedom Leisure is able to continue to develop, and invest, in their operation here in Hastings and most importantly of all, the leisure facility users get better facilities and services."