Letting of a contract for outside operation of both centres will be a major departure from the current situation, which sees council itself running both businesses, with its own employed staff.

Contracting the operation to an outside firm will see a return to the initial type of operation at Manning Aquatic Leisure Centre, where it was run by Leisure Australia from its opening in August 2000.

This arrangement lasted for just six months however, before council took over responsibility.

It has continued to run the MALC itself for more than a decade, and similarly Wingham has in recent years been operated by council-employed staff.

In August last year, as a result of council's service review, it resolved to move to tender for operation of both pools.

Council staff sought the advice of other councils involved in the management of similar facilities, who identified the benefits of using an independent third party to prepare documents and assist with the final contract with the successful tenderer.

The process is a lengthy one, involving - among other things - development of a contract compliance and reporting system that reduces the risk to council and the service provider, and maximises the opportunity for success.

Council has agreed in principle to allocate $30,000 to the engagement of a consultant to provide it with expert advice and facilitate the tendering process for both facilities.

The process is expected to be completed mid-year.