Finesse Leisure and GLL in talks over merger

Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL) and Finesse Leisure Partnership are in advanced talks over a potential merger.

A deal would see Finesse Leisure's seven Hertfordshire leisure and cultural sites, including Hatfield Leisure Centre, Hatfield Swim Centre and Stanborough Park, run under GLL’s ‘Better’ brand from as early as April 2018.

Finesse has been managing facilities on behalf of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council since 2004. This month, councillors have been discussing whether to approve the transfer of its leisure management contract over to GLL.

“We believe a potential merger could bring together the many strengths of GLL and Finesse in a way that will benefit all our communities,” said councillor Tony Kingsbury, executive member for policy and culture at the borough council.

Robin Loader, Finesse chairman, said: “We were keen to explore a merger, not simply due to GLL’s strength in the sector, but because of the values we both share.”

GLL, which operates 275 leisure and cultural facilities nationwide, already manages Gosling Sports Park in Welwyn Garden City.

GLL managing director Mark Sesnan, added: “We're looking forward to working with the council and Finesse to broaden the benefits of our Better brand to the residents of Hertfordshire, getting more people, more active, more often.”