Three leisure centres in Hastings, East Sussex, are set to benefit from investment worth at least £700,000 after Freedom Leisure retained its contract to operate the facilities.

The non-profit leisure trust will continue to manage the Summerfields, Hillcrest and Falaise facilities on behalf of Hastings Borough Council (HBC) for a five-and-a-half-year period. Summerfields is expected to see improvements carried out to its pool hall, including a new ceiling and lighting. A new circuit-based gym is also proposed as part of the scheme.

Meanwhile, the cardiovascular gym equipment at the Falaise site will be replaced as part of proposed upgrade work, along with the revamp of toilet and changing room facilities. Freedom Leisure managing director Jeff Hart said: "Our partnership with Hastings 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."

HBC lead member for leisure Trevor Webb added: "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 service."