Two popular Brixham venues have been empowered to invest in their facilities after we agreed to enter into new long lease agreements with them.

Cabinet has approved a recommendation to agree a new 150-year lease with Brixham Rugby Club in Astley Park, a move which will allow the club to gain access to much-needed funding.

We've also entered into a similar arrangement with Shoalstone Seawater Pool.

Having a more secure lease will mean that the Shoalstone Seawater Pool Community Interest Organisation (CIO), which manages the pool on behalf of tenant Brixham Town Council, can bid for grant funding to carry out immediate repairs.

Brixham Rugby Club is approaching its 150^th anniversary and has ambitions to rise through the Rugby National League structure which means it will need facilities to match.

Brixham Town Council occupies the Shoalstone premises under a 40-year lease granted in 2015. The site includes the seawater pool, car park, former putting green, shelter and the toilet block.

Studies carried out by the CIO found repairs are needed to the pool and the sea wall.

Councillor Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing, said: “Being on a short lease meant accessing grants from funding bodies was difficult. Providing longer leases for these two organisations will help them unlock opportunities to improve their facilities.

“We’re keen that residents thrive and have access to excellent amenities, including sports facilities. We want to promote good mental and physical health and promoting activities like rugby and swimming can help people achieve that.”

Councillor Mike Morey, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Environment and Culture, said: “In the case of Brixham Rugby Club, we hope they will realise their ambitions to rise through the league and achieve great success.

“Investment at Shoalstone will safeguard and promote the pool for the health, enjoyment and pleasure of the people of Brixham, residents and visitors, today and for future generations.”