THE hunt is on for a partner to deliver and maintain a new sports centre in Alton.

East Hampshire District Council (EHDC)?has invited leisure providers to tender for the right to work with the council in delivering top-class facilities in Alton, as well as in Whitehill and Bordon and in upgrading the Taro Leisure Centre in Petersfield.

The right partner would work alongside the council to invest in, develop and manage these facilities into the future.

The selection process, which began on Monday, will see the chosen partner in place by March 2017.

Richard Millard, the district council’s deputy leader, said: “By working in close partnership with established leisure operators we will be able to deliver the facilities and services the people of East Hampshire expect.

“We are excited to see what opportunities will come forward as this procurement develops. The proposed joint venture partnership approach is aimed at maximising the commercial performance to enable investment in East Hampshire’s facilities, with the aim of providing a high-quality leisure offer, while still continuing to provide access for all to our leisure facilities.”