Mid Devon Leisure has announced a series of improvements to its three sites, including a revamp of both poolside and dryside changing room facilities. The Council plans to invest £760,000 across its three leisure centres next year and is pleased to report its highest ever membership base.

As part of the Council’s commitment to providing quality facilities and services, Mid Devon Leisure will be implementing a modest increase in membership prices, effective from the 1st January 2025. The full membership will rise to £41 (an increase of £2) while the gym or swim membership will be set at £35 (an increase of £1). We have ensured that these prices remain highly competitive within the region. Last year these leisure fees remained unchanged.

This investment comes as the Council embarks on a significant refresh of Mid Devon Leisure’s facilities at Culm Valley Leisure Centre, including a much improved functional studio and new gym equipment. Additionally, new poolside changing rooms will be installed at both Exe Valley in Tiverton and Lords Meadow in Crediton, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for all our users.

To improve customer experience the Council will be investing in new software to make swimming bookings and lesson communication much simpler. Our upcoming app will provide quicker access to booked activities, along with enhanced access controls for a seamless entry process. In addition to the future investments, we have recently improved the quality of our swimming pool water by introducing salt as an alternative to chlorine, and over the past years have invested heavily in environmental sustainability including the installation of LED lights and ground and air source heat pumps.

Councillor Josh Wright, Cabinet Member for Service Delivery and Continuous Improvement, said:

“We are committed to providing great leisure facilities and services for our customers and it’s exciting to see these plans for further investments and improvements across our three sites. When considering any price rises, the Council must strike the right balance between affordability to leisure users and the cost of the leisure service to Mid Devon taxpayers. With that in mind, this year the Cabinet chose to implement a smaller price increase than was recommended by our specialist consultants, in order to ensure that membership continues to be good value for the excellent service on offer across our leisure sites.”

Mid Devon Leisure understands the importance of accessibility, which is why we are proud to offer a 20% discount on Pay As You Go prices and a 25% discount on memberships for those on means-tested benefits. Furthermore, the cost of our concessionary card will be completely removed and provided free of charge. In the past year Exe Valley and Lords Meadow facilities have had changing places accessible changing rooms and toilets completed, which include tracking hoists and height adjustable changing beds.

What is coming to Mid Devon Leisure in 2025.

• Introduction of new wetside changing rooms and flooring, as well as upgrading some existing changing rooms.
• Launching a new management system and access control that will streamline our operations and enhance the customer experience by providing customers with greater control.
• Collaborating with Zoggs to provide quality swimming retail items such as goggles, training aids and swimwear, all while reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.
• Exciting new gym challenges. Join us for an exciting line up of competitions designed to push your limits and ignite your motivation. Whether you’re a seasonal athlete or just starting out!
• New swimming lesson software designed to enhance the experience.
• Commitment to achieving significant energy savings and promoting sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives that benefit both our community and the environment.

Full details about leisure facilities and fees visit: www.middevonleisure.com.