Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) and Finesse Leisure have finalised their merger, which will see GLL take over the facilities operated by Finesse on behalf of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (WHBC).

Finesse has operated WHBC's portfolio of seven sports and leisure sites since 2004, including the Hatfield Leisure and Swim Centres, Stanborough Park, Panshanger Golf Centre and King George V playing fields.

The merger will see the centres being operated under GLL's 'Better' brand and is expected to save around £7.2m over 10 years by "steadily reducing the management fee".

Finesse's 140 staff will be transferred across to GLL.

According to Robin Loader, chair of Finesse Leisure, the merger will lead to the creation of a new Community Fund, designed to support local organisations in developing a "more active and healthier borough".

“We were keen to explore the merger, not simply due to GLL’s strength in the sector, but because of the values we both share," Loader said.

"We all believe in working to improve health and wellbeing at a local level and supporting the development of better communities and services.

"We are particularly excited about the Community Fund and the difference it will make to local organisations that work hard to engage a variety of residents to participate in physical activity.’

GLL currently operates 273 sport, leisure and cultural facilities nationwide.