Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) has confirmed that Houghton Regis Leisure Centre is to continue offering dry side sports activities until at least March 2013.

The local authority is now looking to appoint a contractor to operate the sports hall gym and squash courts, although the venue's swimming pool will close on 4 September. It is thought that the new contract for dry side activities will run for an initial 12 months from 1 April 2012 and will make the facility "more affordable" to remain open to the public.

CBC executive member for sustainable communities services Brian Spurr said: "This decision, which I hope residents will welcome, allows us to retain leisure facilities and support local clubs while we work with residents to develop our future plans."