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Council awards £156,000 contract for new leisure management system

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Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Ipswich Borough Council has approved a five-year contract with Xn Leisure Systems for a new digital leisure management system. The £156,000 deal aims to improve the operation of Sport & Leisure Services across the town.

The big picture: The council sought a more effective way to manage its leisure facilities digitally. After a competitive bidding process, only one company met the technical requirements.

Key details:

  • Winning bidder: Xn Leisure Systems Ltd

  • Start date: 7 January 2025

  • Duration: 5 years

  • Contract value: £156,000 over 5 years

How it happened:

  • An open tender was advertised through Suffolk Sourcing (IBC/17548)

  • Two bids were received

  • Bids were evaluated based on 35% quality and 65% price

  • Only one bid met the technical requirements

Why it matters: The new system will enable the digital operation of sport and leisure services, potentially improving efficiency and user experience for Ipswich residents.

Behind the scenes: Several internal teams were consulted, including Sports & Leisure, IT, Procurement, Legal, and Finance.

The bottom line: The costs will be managed within existing core service budgets, meaning no additional funding is required for this upgrade.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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