Charitable social enterprise and leisure operator GLL has been appointed to manage two historic leisure facilities; Wycombe Rye Lido in Buckinghamshire and Newcastle City Baths, with operations transferring to the organisation on 1 July 2026.

The appointments follow the administration of previous operator Fusion Lifestyle earlier this year, with GLL taking responsibility for the continued operation of both centres under its Better brand.
Existing members will transfer to Better memberships, providing access to the Better app and ‘Live Better’ a digital health and wellbeing platform comprising on demand fitness classes, virtual health advice and a digital health coach. They will also gain access to GLL’s wider network of leisure facilities across the UK.
Wycombe Rye Lido employees will transfer to GLL under TUPE regulations, ensuring continuity of employment and operational expertise.

During the transition period activities at both facilities will remain unchanged. However, it is anticipated that enhanced programming and extended opening hours will be introduced over the coming months.

Justin Jardine, Chief Officer, Corporate Development at GLL, said:
"We are pleased to be taking on the operation of these two important community assets at a significant point in their history. Our immediate priority is to ensure a smooth transition for customers and staff while maintaining continuity of service.

"As a charitable social enterprise and a cooperative, our focus is on protecting and enhancing public leisure services for the long term. Once the transfer is complete, we will work with local stakeholders to explore opportunities to broaden the offer, improve accessibility and invest in the future of both facilities."

Peter Brazier Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure said:
“

This is a fantastic outcome for the Lido and its users. GLL are a major national leisure operator running more than 380 other centres nationally.
“To have them take over at Wycombe Rye Lido secures a really positive future for the centre and its staff too.”

Newcastle City Council’s Cabinet member for Culture and Communities, Cllr Rob Austin, added:
“GLL manage nearly 400 public services around the country such as pools, leisure centres, gyms and libraries. They already manage some of our existing facilities, so it makes perfect sense to strengthen our partnership with them.
“It’s good news that the future of this Grade II Listed building has been safeguarded, and members can look to the future with confidence and continue to enjoy great leisure services in the heart of the city.”

Wycombe Rye Lido, which opened in 1957, includes two outdoor pools, a gym, fitness studios, an all-weather football pitch and tennis courts. The contract strengthens GLL's presence in the region, complementing its existing operations at Prestwood Gym & Fitness Centre, Henley Leisure Centre and Hillingdon Sports & Leisure Complex.
Newcastle City Baths is one of the city's most significant leisure landmarks. The current Grade II*-listed Art Deco building opened in 1928. Today the complex comprises a 25-metre swimming pool, fitness suite, spa and traditional Turkish baths. The contract expands GLL's portfolio in Newcastle, where it already manages five leisure facilities.

The latest appointments continue GLL's growth as one of the UK's largest not-for-profit leisure operators, with responsibility for more than 250 public sport and leisure facilities nationwide.