It is just over two years since the London Borough of Redbridge took a decision not to renew the contract of Parkwood Leisure, a commercial organisation to whom it had entrusted the running of its sports and leisure facilities since the turn of the millennium. The Council decided to set up a Leisure Trust which it named VISION.

VISION came into action on the 1st April 2007. It is a charitable, non profit making organisation. The implications of that are that any surplus is ploughed back into the facilities and not drawn off to be shared with shareholders.

In the two years since its inception VISION has attempted to become far more customer focussed. It aims to provide the best possible service to its users and to listen carefully to any comments that are made regarding the service that it offers.

Since April 2007 VISION has expanded its portfolio considerably. It has taken over the running of the Redbridge Cycle Centre at Hog Hill, the first concrete piece of legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games which is to be held in the Olympic Park at Stratford. It has also taken over the day-to-day running of Fairlop Waters and has recently awarded a catering contract to a Greek restauranteur, in order to revive the catering facility at that centre. On April 1st 2009 it will be taking responsibility for the running of the Wanstead Leisure Centre.

At the present time (April 2009) the facilities at Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre are being enhanced by two building schemes which will further improve the facilities offered to the public.

VISION has established a close, and effective, partnership with the London Borough of Redbridge. Feedback from the public has indicated a very marked level of satisfaction with the present provision of sport and leisure facilities in the Borough. The work of the professional workforce is closely monitored by a Board of Director Trustees which meets regularly to ensure the smooth working of the Trust. It aims to provide a service fit for the 21st Century.

Tony Maxwell