Lewes District Council and Newhaven Town Council have agreed to support Wave Leisure's bid to make Shakespeare Hall in Newhaven a viable business.

The not-for-profit company will now provide sports and activities in the venue, which is in need of a revamp.

Wave Leisure, which operates leisure centres across Lewes district, came to the rescue earlier this year, when the hall's trustees could not attract enough customers to stay afloat.

Wave Leisure, Newhaven Town Council and Lewes District Council have all put their hands in their pockets to ensure this important facility continues - stronger and better than before. This agreement gives a total of £150, 000 towards the maintenance costs of the hall and total of £30, 000 revenue deficit costs should they be needed.

Wave Leisure's Managing Director, Peter Crowley, said: "Wave Leisure, over the last two months, have been working with the existing Trustees of Shakespeare Hall, Newhaven Town Council, the user groups and Lewes District Council to ensure that this facility stays open for the wider community.

"Our thanks go to all the community groups and the existing Trustees, the Town Council, the District Councillors and Officers for their continued support and in keeping this facility open."

Wave Leisure will manage the facility in conjunction with Seahaven Swim and Fitness Centre from the 1st November 2010.