Free swimming for over-60s comes to an end

Archived press release

Date Published: 14/07/10

The free swimming initiative for the over-60s at Aylesbury Vale’s council-owned pools will come to an end at close of sessions on Saturday 31 July.

The stopping of the scheme follows the government’s decision to end free swimming funding to local authorities in the light of national budgetary constraints.

Free swimming for people over 60 in Aylesbury Vale was made possible through a direct grant received from the government. The scheme was introduced in the Vale in April 2009, and was due to run until March 2011.

Without the government grant, Aylesbury Vale District Council and Aylesbury Vale Community Trust are unable to support the free swimming initiative.

Councillor David Thompson, Cabinet Member for Leisure at AVDC, said: “The news of the withdrawal of funding for the scheme is disappointing. However, the council remains committed to supporting people in leading healthy and active lifestyles, whatever their age. I would encourage anyone affected by the end of the scheme to contact the leisure centres to see what great value for money promotions best suit their needs.”

Since April 2009, more than 3,000 people over 60 in the Vale have registered for free swimming. In total those registered benefited from over 15,000 free swims.

Free swimming will continue through to 31 July and from 1 August 2010 standard admission charges will be applied at Aqua Vale in Aylesbury and Swan Pool in Buckingham.

For more information on swimming in Aylesbury Vale, visit www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/leisure-culture or call 01296 585210.