A COMPANY that operates leisure centres across Somerset issued a statement after entering administration after 25-years, following a ‘period of financial difficulty’.
Fusion Lifestyle, which operated the Wells Fitness Centre and Pool, Tor Fitness Centre, Glastonbury, Strode Swimming and Fitness Centre, Frome Leisure Centre, and Shepton Mallet Lido, entered administration on April 1, 2026.
Nadeem Sweiss and Adam Stephens of S&W Partners LLP (“S&W”) were appointed as Joint Administrators.
Despite combined efforts to restructure and secure investment, Fusion has faced ‘sustained financial pressures’ due to rising operational costs, reduced government funding, and post-pandemic recovery challenges.
A spokesperson for Fusion Leisure said: “After 25 years of operation, the Trustees have taken the difficult decision to place the Charity into Administration following an extensive review of its financial position and future viability.
“The leisure sector has faced sustained financial pressures, including rising operational costs (particularly energy costs), reduced government funding, and ongoing post-pandemic recovery challenges. Over recent months, the Trustees, Executive Team, and External Financial Advisors have explored all reasonable options to secure a sustainable future for the Charity. This has included engaging with key stakeholders, seeking additional funding, reviewing operational efficiencies, and considering restructuring options.
“Despite these efforts, it has not been possible to identify a viable pathway that would ensure the long-term financial stability of the Charity."
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The spokesperson added: “Throughout this process, the Trustees have remained focused on acting in the best interests of staff and stakeholders. Particular consideration has been given to minimising the impact on employees and the communities we serve. The Trustees are pleased that, with the support of Somerset Council, there will be minimal disruption to leisure centre services and that a significant number of jobs will be protected through this process.
“This decision has not been taken lightly. The Trustees would like to place on record their sincere thanks to staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters for their commitment and contribution to the Charity’s work.”
After ‘recognising the vital role’ the Somerset leisure centres play, Fusion’s management team, alongside S&W have collaborated with Somerset Council to explore options to keep the facilities open.
To avoid disruption to the public, Somerset Council has agreed to a transition period, supporting the charity, whilst in administration, until a new operator is secured.
MPs, including Tessa Munt, Sarah Dyke and Anna Sabine, are also campaigning to keep the facilities open to ensure ‘key services remain open to the local community.’
The leisure centres will continue to operate, and customers and creditors are encouraged to check their local leisure centre’s website and social media channels for the latest updates.
Nadeem Sweiss, director at S&W and joint administrator of Fusion, said: “Alongside Fusion’s management team and Somerset Council, we have worked hard to ensure the leisure centres can continue to operate as usual during the Administration. Our priority is to maintain uninterrupted access to these vital community facilities while we progress discussions with Somerset Council, who will be putting new operators in place to run the leisure centres.
“We know how important these centres are to the communities they serve, and we are committed to supporting a smooth transition. We will continue to work collaboratively with management and Somerset Council to limit disruption and safeguard the long‑term future of the centres.”
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