Fusion Lifestyle has been appointed by Enfield Council to manage and operate its seven leisure centres, and implement a major investment and improvement plan.

Fusion has been selected following a detailed procurement process which thoroughly tested value for money, quality and future operational plans among a number of bidders. "Fusion demonstrated its ability to provide an excellent service that improves facilities but reduces costs," commented Cllr Bambos Charalambous, cabinet member for young people, leisure, culture and Olympics. "We were impressed by Fusion's bid which delivers real value for money for Enfield's residents, ensuring the appropriate balance between cost and quality."

For residents of the borough, this decision means million of pounds worth of extra investment with greater emphasis on making the centres more attractive and relevant to their local communities.

Rob Leak, Enfield Council's chief executive, said: "We have appointed a highly experienced partner with a track record of delivering excellence, innovation and quality, to operate some of this borough most cherished services."

Peter Kay, chief executive officer at Fusion, said: "Improving leisure and cultural opportunities is a key priority for Enfield Council and the team at Fusion is looking forward to delivering exciting developments over the next few years. As a registered charity, we are committed to providing the local community with high quality services at a price people are willing to pay."

An investment of £8.9m will be pumped into improving facilities at Albany, Southgate, Southbury and Edmonton Leisure Centres over the next three years. Southgate's pool will be developed and there will be a new layout to the gym area and Albany will have a refurbished and extended gym.

"With the promise of the London Olympics ahead, this investment is truly the beginning of a new era and Enfield's residents are well place to have a lasting legacy for many years to come," said Cllr Charalambous.

Fusion Lifestyle has been established since 2000 and now operates 45 locations in London and the South East including Brockwell Lido, Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex and Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre, providing recreational sport, health and fitness activities for local communities.

The contract involves managing Enfield's leisure centres, Albany Leisure Centre, Arnos Pool, Aspire Sports and Fitness Centre, Bramley Bowls Centre, Edmonton Leisure Centre, Southbury Leisure Centre and Southgate Leisure Centre. Its provisions include holiday play schemes, facilities management, design and project management of buildings improvement, buildings maintenance and sport development.