Places Leisure chosen as preferred bidder for St Annes Pool

Fylde Council has selected Places Leisure as the preferred operator for St Annes Swimming Pool, bringing fresh investment and exciting improvements that will benefit everyone who already loves swimming, while creating opportunities to attract new swimmers from across Fylde and beyond.

Places Leisure will take over operations from 1 April 2026. Bringing ambitious plans to enhance the swimming experience for residents and visitors alike, with full details of their investment plans and improvements to follow.

Fylde Council has already committed a minimum of £1.9 million for essential works at St Annes Pool.

Dan Walker, Business Development Director at Places Leisure, said: “We are thrilled to be named as the preferred bidder for the operation and management of St Annes Swimming Pool and to be selected as the Council’s Partner.

“The investment in the facility will allow us to provide more opportunities and improve access for the local community to be physically active. This includes improving access to swimming lessons. Swimming is a skill for life, with over 126,000 children and adults learning to swim with Places Leisure every year and we look forward to bringing our swimming programme to the community.

“Places Leisure is a part of the Places for People Group who provide housing and supported living services in the local and surrounding areas. It is a privilege to now provide a leisure provision in our heartland, further enhancing our commitment to support thriving communities.”

Councillor Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, added: “This is brilliant news for everyone who loves swimming in Fylde. Places Leisure really understand what our community needs, and their plans will deliver swimming provision we can all be proud of. Whether you’re teaching your toddler to swim, improving your fitness or enjoying a social swim with friends, these improvements will make a real difference to your experience.”