SOUTHAMPTON City Council will take over the management of a golf course in the city as the current operator has been hit by the pandemic.

Civic chiefs will run the Southampton Golf Course from April 1.

It comes as the contract with current operator Mytime Active will cease on March 31.

The authority said the effects of the pandemic on Mytime Active’s business "has led to their decision to cease operating the Southampton Golf Centre".

The change of management is taking place by mutual agreement, the council said.

The news was announced after cabinet members agreed the proposals in a meeting held behind-closed-doors earlier this week.

The council said the decision is in line with similar decisions taken by other councils across the country.

It comes as last summer concerns were raised over the impact of the pandemic on leisure centres after they had to close for months due to coronavirus restrictions.

The city council said it is anticipated that all current Mytime Active staff members who solely or mainly work at the Southampton course will transfer in their roles over to the employment of the council.

The migration process for existing golfers should also be seamless, the council said.

Cllr Satvir Kaur, cabinet member for culture and homes at the city council, said: “The leisure sector nationally has been significantly affected this past year by the pandemic, and here in Southampton it has sadly resulted in this difficult decision by Mytime Active.

"I would like to reassure Southampton golfers that Southampton City Council remains committed to this much loved municipal course and will be using this opportunity to maximise everything it has to offer and work on longer-term plans.”

It comes as last year civic chiefs unveiled plans to spend £16.9m to refurbish the Outdoor Sports Centre.

The council's decision to run the golf course will be subject to the authority’s seven day "call in" period.

The council said Mytime Active will be contacting all club members and customers.

Anyone with concerns or questions has been advised to contact contactcentre@mytimeactive.co.uk or visit the Mytime Active website mytimeactive.co.uk/southampton-city-faqs.

Mytime Active has been approached for comment.