Future of Plains Fitness uncertain as council calls for expressions of interest

Liverpool Plains Shire Council will seek expressions of interest for the potential sale or lease of Plains Fitness Recreation Centre, citing mounting financial pressures and long-term operating losses at the facility.

The move follows an independent review of the council’s financial position and an assessment of ongoing deficits linked to the gym, as well as shifts in the local fitness market in recent years.

General manager Cian Middleton said the EOI process would test whether a private operator may be better positioned to run the centre sustainably.

“Council is facing a difficult financial outlook, and we need to make responsible decisions about how we allocate limited funds across essential services,” Mr Middleton said.

While acknowledging strong community support for the gym, Mr Middleton said operating a fitness centre was not a core function of local government.

“There is strong community attachment and goodwill towards Plains Fitness, so this has not been a simple or straightforward decision for council,” he said.

“However, private operators are typically better placed to deliver these services in a competitive and financially sustainable way.”

According to council projections, Plains Fitness is forecast to record losses of $2.3 million over the next decade. Mr Middleton said the council could not justify continuing to subsidise the service at that level, given its broader responsibilities and the impact on ratepayers.

As part of the transition plan, council has endorsed shifting the facility to an unstaffed 24/7 operating model from June 1, 2026. The change is expected to reduce operational costs while maintaining member access.

If no suitable buyer or lessee is secured through the EOI process, the council will continue operating the centre under the unstaffed model while exploring partnership opportunities and alternative operating strategies.

Under the new arrangement, private personal trainers will still be permitted to deliver services and group fitness programs at the facility.

Membership fees will be adjusted to reflect the reduced service model, with updated pricing to be published on the council’s website.

Expressions of interest for the potential purchase or lease of Plains Fitness are expected to open in the coming weeks.