Three of Kingston borough's key leisure sites; the Malden Centre, Tolworth Recreation Centre, and Weir Archer Athletics and Fitness Centre have now joined Albany Outdoors and Chessington Sports Centre as part of the next phase of a current 10-year agreement with Places Leisure.

The agreement with Places Leisure, part of the PfP Group and one of the UK's leading social enterprises, will "provide new leisure services and improved facilities across the borough, and enable Kingston Council to deliver its ambitious Active Kingston programme", says the Council.

The authority added:  "This focuses on using the power of sport and physical activity to tackle inequalities, increase participation and support healthier communities.

"Leisure plays a vital role in wellbeing, prevention and community health." 

So far in 2026, Places Leisure has expanded its specialist healthy communities programme, including cancer rehabilitation, menopause support and strength and balance classes. 

The Good Boost programme, which offers water and land based exercises targeting specific areas of the body, has delivered strong outcomes, with 66% of patients reporting improved symptoms, and 47% experiencing improvements in anxiety and life satisfaction within six weeks.

As part of the contract, £11 million is being invested in leisure services across the borough, with Kingston Council and Places Leisure working in partnership. 

For example, at Chessington Sports Centre, three five-a-side astropitches have been resurfaced and there has been deep cleaning of the tennis and netball courts. 

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In addition, Places Leisure will invest in energy saving initiatives to help reduce the carbon footprint of leisure facilities, such as upgrades to LED lighting to help support the council's wider carbon reduction ambitions. 

According to Kingston Council, Places Leisure is a leading social enterprise and leisure management company with a strong track record in delivering high-quality,community-focused services. 

The council said: "It was awarded the 10-year contract following a competitive tender process."

From Spring 2027, Places Leisure will also operate the new Kingston Leisure Centre.