Council and democracy

Croydon sets pre-Olympic free swimming pace

Croydon has also got in first by promoting free swimming for youngsters under 16. Last summer the council allowed school-age swimmers free admission to all its pools.

Said cabinet member for culture and sport, Councillor Steve Hollands: "We're delighted to be seen setting the pace for Government initiatives and will always be pleased to pass on tips to the minister, Tessa Jowell.

"Free swimming for the over 60s has been a great success since we introduced the facility last November. And frankly, the only problem with the free sessions for young people that we piloted during the summer school holidays was that it was almost too successful, with numbers taking up the offer far exceeding expectations. However, it's good to see the Government catching up on ideas that we've already been trying out in Croydon."

For older people especially, Croydon Council says there are many benefits from participating in gentle physical activity such as swimming. Taking moderate, regular exercise helps keep them mobile, fit and active and able to maintain an independent lifestyle. 

The council decided to introduce free swimming for all over 60s to coincide with the start of the new management contract and the initiative was highlighted during recent inspections as an example of good practice for services to older people. Up to the end of May well over 19,000 free swims had been recorded, ensuring a significantly higher usage of the borough's pools.

Croydon anticipates that demand for the facility could soar when the borough has its three new pools in use at Waddon, New Addington and Coulsdon.

Free swimming for over 60s has been promoted this month by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport as a centrepiece of the Government's plan to ensure a lasting sporting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic Games. The minister has also expressed an ambition to provide free swimming for all users.

However, Croydon Council has warned that such largesse would have a cost - in terms of increased wear and tear, reduced income, and possibly in the management of higher numbers of users, not least to ensure their safety.

Added Councillor Hollands: "The Government says it is proposing to back its ambition with a £140 million fund. We must ensure that we secure a fair share of this sum to meet the extra costs that would be incurred if an even wider range of free swimming is provided.

"Overall it's a great idea - otherwise we wouldn't have launched it ourselves. But while free to users in the pool, there are still leisure management costs that will be incurred and need to be met. We'll be pressing the Government to meet its financial responsibilities."