Todmorden News

Diving In For Free Swimming In Todmorden

Members of Calderdale Council’s cabinet will discuss plans to offer free swimming for under 16’s when they meet on Monday 8th December. An annual grant of £103,325 would be made available by the Government to support the under 16’s scheme, which would run for two years from 2009 to 2011. However, the initiative could cost the Council £23,000 in 2009/10 and £27,000 in 2010/11.

The scheme could run alongside free swimming for the over 60’s, which has already been given backing by Cabinet.

A government grant of £57,000 would be made available to the Council to support the introduction of free swimming for the over 60s. This would leave Calderdale Council to make up the additional costs of £19,000 for 2009/10, and £21,000 for 2010/11.

By taking part in these schemes the Council will be able to apply for capital funding for pool improvements. A national pot of £50 million will be available and would be distributed by Sport England.

Both schemes could be in place as soon as next year but Cabinet members have warned they will be unable to go ahead if further Council cash is needed to make it viable.

Councillor Amanda Byrne, Cabinet Member for Community Services said:

“This is a great opportunity for Calderdale, and something we will be examining at the next cabinet meeting.

“With such exciting progress being made across Calderdale in the provision of leisure services – with new facilities planned for Brighouse and Sowerby Bridge – the opportunity to offer free swimming is something we’ll be seriously considering.

“By agreeing to participate in these schemes the Council will be encouraging residents to lead a healthier lifestyle, a key priority for Calderdale Council.

“However, we must take into consideration the fact that the scheme would only run for 2 years, with charges being reintroduced from 1st April 2011. Our decision must make financial sense for the residents of Calderdale.”