A week after they revealed details of their probable transfer to an outside body, Fenland Council says its four leisure centres are likely to achieve a record £2.3 million income this year.

Cambs Times: George Campbell Leisure Centre, March, which has recently been revamped. PHOTO: Steve Williams.George Campbell Leisure Centre, March, which has recently been revamped. PHOTO: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Portfolio holder Michelle Tanfield will unveil the latest figures to councillors in a report which says paid visits too are expected to exceed the 2016/17 target of 837.588.

“The income levels reflect the investment at the George Campbell centre 18 months ago continuing to match expectations,” says Cllr Tanfield.

Other highlights have included use of direct debit membership which she says has “closely tracked targets in the past few months with December improving slightly above the target.

“Income levels continue to exceed expectations and customer satisfaction levels indicate that our membership performance will continue to be strong for the rest of the financial year.”

The report also reveals improvements to the online booking system and Cllr Tanfield says an App for use on a tablet or smart phone enables customers to book classes instantly and receive regular updates.

She said the App had the extra advantage of freeing up receptionists time by not having to answer general information inquiries which are now sent direct to customers.

The council recently sent out 3,700 customer satisfaction surveys recently with a response rate of 19 per cent, or 690 returned.

Highest satisfaction rate was at Chatteris where 91 out of 101 customers were satisfied (90 per cent) and the lowest was the Hudson where 148 out of 180 expressed satisfaction (82 per cent).

“Customer satisfaction continues to run at a high level,” said Cllr Tanfield. “This ensures good word of mouth in the communities which in turn will attract more members to use the facilities on offer.”