Aura: Questions linger over Flintshire leisure handover plan
The looming handover of Flintshire’s leisure and library services to a new council-owned trading company has sparked significant concern over the transition’s feasibility and potential impact on communities.
As the October 31 deadline approaches, questions are being raised about the rushed timeline and the financial implications of the change.
The services, currently managed by Aura Leisure and Libraries, an employee-owned social enterprise, have been a vital part of the community since 2017.
Aura, praised for its post-pandemic recovery and strong track record, welcomed over 1.5 million visitors to leisure and library facilities in 2023 alone, including thousands of children participating in swimming lessons and holiday activities.
However, Flintshire County Council’s decision to terminate Aura’s contract and transfer the services to Flintshire Libraries and Leisure Limited—a wholly council-owned company—has prompted concern.
Critics, including Community Leisure UK CEO Kirsty Cumming, argue that the planned transfer is too rushed, risking disruption to services, creating uncertainty for staff, and generating additional costs for the council.
In a letter to the council, Ms Cumming warned that “the proposed timeline for a change of operating model appears not to be feasible” and could have serious consequences for service delivery.
She highlighted that such transitions typically take at least two years to complete, yet Flintshire’s move is being pushed through in less than a month.
Plaid Cymru’s North Wales MS Llyr Gruffydd echoed these concerns, noting that while he had received assurances from Flintshire’s chief executive, there were still unanswered questions about the readiness for the transition.
He also pointed to potential financial challenges, particularly the loss of rate relief Aura enjoys as a social enterprise, which could cost the council an additional £447,000 per year.
“There are clearly huge challenges for all local councils in Wales due to 15 years of austerity and underfunding from central government,” Mr Gruffydd said.
“Flintshire is no different, but my concern here is whether taking this service in-house will make the savings or maintain the services currently provided.”
Mr Gruffydd emphasised the importance of protecting jobs and services, especially given that leisure facilities are not a statutory service.
While he was reassured that staff would be transferred under the same terms and conditions, he shared concerns about the future of these services, particularly given the tight timeline for the transition.
“The principle of worker-run enterprises is a good one and has been encouraged by the Welsh Government, so it’s disappointing to see a Labour council rowing back on this,” Mr Gruffydd added. “Aura’s record speaks for itself, and it’s disappointing that staff have been put through the wringer by this whole debacle.”
A Flintshire Council spokesperson said: “Flintshire County Council’s contract with Aura Leisure and Libraries Ltd will come to an end next month.
“It follows lengthy discussions between the Council and Aura this year to secure a long-term agreement for the future provision of leisure, library, play, and museum services in the county.
“A new contract was offered to Aura, which has been declined. The Council is disappointed that agreement could not be reached on a longer-term arrangement given the commitment by members and officers and the positive steps taken to seek resolution.
“The Council is keen to ensure a robust plan is in place and duly communicated in readiness for when the current contract expires on 31 October. The primary focus will now be to minimise disruption for service-users and provide assurance to Aura employees.”
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