Issue - meetings

To consider a report by the Leisure Centres’ Co-ordinator.

Endorsed the action taken by officers to adopt free swimming for over 60’s  with effect from 1^st April 2009

A report by the Leisure Centre’s Co-ordinator (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book) was submitted summarising the Government’s incentives for local authorities to offer free swimming for over 60’s and under 17’s.

In considering the benefits, disadvantages and risks associated with each incentive, along with the allocation being offered to the authority by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the Cabinet were advised that free swimming for over 60’s was both cost effective and manageable given the numbers likely to take up the offer.  However, it was felt that free swimming for under 17’s would have a significant impact upon admissions and the remuneration offered was not commensurate with the costs involved in providing the extra staff required for the anticipated demand.  Having been advised that these sentiments had been conveyed to the DCMS, the Cabinet

RESOLVED

  that the action taken by the Chief Officer Management Team to adopt the free swimming for the over 60’s with effect from 1st April 2009 be endorsed.