Swim England has launched a nationwide campaign urging ministers to extend the financial support being offered to ‘under threat’ swimming pools and leisure centres.
The government is conducting a review of the Energy Bill Relief Scheme to determine whether businesses will receive further financial help to cope with the cost of living crisis beyond March 2023. It is due to publish the findings before the end of this year.
Swim England has launched a #SaveOurPools petition to show the government how much ‘vulnerable’ facilities mean to communities across the country in a bid to prevent a ‘dire’ situation from worsening.
It comes as Better Leisure became the latest operator to announce a reduction in its opening hours as energy bills had tripled. It follows Freedom Leisure previously announcing the temporary closure of pools.
It is feared that 40 per cent of local authorities are likely to see closures or service reductions in the coming months – which could see more than 100 pools shut.
The petition states: “Swimming pools and leisure centres are vital to the health and wellbeing of the country, reducing pressures on the NHS as well as being the place where millions learn how to be safe in the water. However, they are under threat as a result of increased energy bills. Pools are already closing up and down the country and without additional support this situation will only get worse.
“We the undersigned urge the government to recognise the particular vulnerability of swimming pools and leisure centres as part of the Energy Bill Relief Scheme Review and to provide adequate additional support for these businesses beyond the initial six months to prevent widespread service failure.”
Jane Nickerson, Swim England chief executive, said operators and pool owners are facing a dire situation.
“Our sector has faced incredible challenges and setbacks in the last three years and, once again, pools are under threat. The government needs to recognise how important they are to millions of people and give them the financial assistance beyond the initial six months to cope with soaring energy costs.
“Not providing the support needed will lead to widespread service failure and put increased pressure on the NHS and social care system.”
