9 September 2008: Plans to introduce free swimming for over 60's and under 16's

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Plans to introduce free swimming for over 60's and under 16's

At their Cabinet meeting today, District Councillors will vote on a recommendation to introduce free swimming slots for the over 60's and under 16's at Lewes Leisure Centre and Seahaven Swim and Fitness Centre in Newhaven. The scheme would start in April 2009.

Lewes District Council is acting quickly to ensure that residents in Lewes and Newhaven get the maximum benefit from the Government's proposal for a national subsidised swimming initiative.

James MacCleary, Lead Councillor for Community at Lewes District Council said,  "This is a great opportunity to get more people involved in swimming at two pools within the District, that are managed by Wave Leisure Trust. These are the only two pools in the District which qualify under the national scheme. The scheme currently excludes school pools such as those in Ringmer and Seaford. We want to see as many under 16's and over 60's as possible making use of these free swimming slots from next April. If it is approved by Cabinet, I believe the Scheme will play an important role in improving the health and wellbeing in the District as well as helping us engage with young people through constructive activities".

More information about this initiative can be found on our website, reference cabinet report No 170/08, Agenda Item 7.8.

Notes to editors:

Lewes District Council will be responding to the grant offer being made by the Government, that would allow it to claim £38,524 per annum for two years until March 2011 to put in place a number of specific public swimming slots when the over 60's could come along for free. We are also able to bid for a grant to provide the same opportunity for the under 16's.

Media enquiries: Liz Lacon, Communications Manager liz.lacon@lewes.gov.uk