Leading UK leisure facility operator Parkwood Leisure has won the contract to manage the Riviera International Conference Centre (RICC) in Torquay, South Devon.

As part of the new 25-year agreement, which begins on 1 April 2021, the centre will benefit from £1.4m of improvements and upgrades over the coming months.

These improvements will include a new reception, a refurbished gym fitted out with state-of-the art Life Fitness equipment, a virtual spin studio, as well as a high and low ropes adventure course overlooking the sea.

In addition to these changes, the Council will be carrying out over £1.2m of upgrades to the structure, plant and roofs of the building to ensure that the conference facilities, function rooms and ‘Waves’ family leisure pool can continue to be enjoyed by the local community and visitors for years to come.

Glen Hall, managing director of Parkwood Leisure commented: “Riviera International Conference Centre is an iconic facility and one we’re proud to take on the management of.

“The improvements we’ll be making to the centre with the support of the local council will deliver an incredible facility that will provide opportunities for the whole community to be healthier and happier.”

Cllr Swithin Long, cabinet member for Housing, Regeneration and Tourism at Torbay Council, said: “We understand the importance of the RICC not only to our local community, but to Torbay’s visitor and business tourism industry.

“In Parkwood we’ve partnered with a company that can support our vision of supporting healthy and physically active lives for all our residents.

“We’re excited about the improvements being made to the building and grounds, and ultimately welcoming back all leisure and corporate visitors.”

The new fitness facility and ropes adventure course are due to be completed by September 2021.

For more information visit Parkwood Leisure's official website.