Leisure World is taking decisive steps to reassure customers and deliver the high-quality experience they expect. Recent feedback from Ofsted on holiday camp provision, alongside comments from customers about cleanliness and service, has strengthened the council’s commitment to making meaningful improvements where they matter most.
Following an Ofsted inspection, which highlighted three areas of non-compliance relating to paperwork and policies, Leisure World remains Ofsted-registered and has acted swiftly. At a meeting with Ofsted on Monday, 17 November, the council provided an update on its robust action plan already in place, which includes:
- Enhanced safeguarding training for all staff working directly with children.
- Greater transparency for parents, with policies now easily accessible via our website and booking system.
- Improved communication protocols with Ofsted, ensuring any serious incidents are reported promptly and effectively.
These measures will be fully in place for its Christmas camps, ensuring children enjoy a safe, fun, and welcoming environment.
Richard Block, Chief Operating Officer at Colchester City Council, said: "Parents trust us with their children, and we take that responsibility extremely seriously. We have already begun implementing improvements and will continue to invest in staff training and facilities to maintain the highest standards of safety and care."
Beyond holiday camps, Leisure World is focused on raising standards across all services and facilities. A long-term improvement programme is underway, including:
- Higher cleaning standards supported by rigorous monitoring.
- Customer service enhancements to ensure every visitor feels valued.
- Investment in building upgrades to create a modern, welcoming environment for all.
Cllr Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: "Leisure World must improve in key areas. Our customers deserve consistently high standards, and we know that hasn’t always happened. The team understands the urgency and is committed to real change. This is a pivotal moment, and I’m confident customers will soon see a major uplift in their experience."
Cllr Mark Cory, Portfolio Holder for Resources and Assets, added: "Our investment plans will ensure Leisure World steps up in safety, cleanliness, and enjoyment for all visitors. When finances are tight, we have to spend wisely. We aim to repurpose under-used parts of the site, bringing in needed income to deliver the major investment required to create a much-improved leisure facility for residents across Colchester."
Leisure World will continue to share updates on progress, ensuring transparency and building confidence in the improvements being made.
Page last reviewed: 19 November 2025