Following the Government announcement in June that it would be cancelling the funding for its free swimming initiative for the over 60s and 16s and under with effect from 31 July, Kings Lynn Borough Council is now set to offer free Swimming to those aged over 60 and 16 and under. These age groups are being given a free upgrade to their Leisure Card Lite so that they can benefit from a discount on the cost of swimming, once the Government’s free swimming initiative ends.
Cllr Elizabeth Nockolds, Cabinet Member for Sports, Arts and Open Spaces, said: “The free swimming initiative has been excellent and has encouraged many people to take up the activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. It is disappointing that the funding has ended, but in the current climate we are all having to look at our expenditure.
“We have looked into the implications of this announcement and, whilst it is not possible for us to offer free swimming, we are pleased to be able to announce that we will be giving Leisure Card Lite holders a free upgrade to a junior or concessionary leisure card which will enable them to swim at a reduced price.
“We hope that by offering this upgrade it will reduce the impact on people’s pockets and encourage them to continue swimming,” she continued.
Existing Free Swim Leisure Card Lite holders will be automatically upgraded to either a junior or concessionary leisure card. Leisure Card Lite holders who live outside of the borough will be upgraded to a junior or adult leisure card. The upgraded leisure cards will be valid until 31 March 2011, in line with the original end date of the Government’s free swim programme. Free swimming for under 5s will continue to be available as this was available before the Government introduced its free swimming programme.
For information about the borough’s swimming pools visit http://www.west-norfolk.gov.uk/