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Written question asked by Rachael Maskell (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 March 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 17 March 2023. It was answered by Stuart Andrew (Conservative) on Thursday, 23 March 2023 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Leisure Centres and Swimming Pools: Energy

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, with reference to paragraph 2.28 of the Spring Budget 2023, HC1183, published in March 2023, if she will make it her policy to extend energy bill support for swimming pools to whole leisure centre complexes with swimming pools.

Answer

We recognise the importance of ensuring public access to swimming pools, as swimming is a great way for people of all ages to stay fit and healthy. The responsibility of providing this access lies at Local Authority level, and the Government continues to encourage Local Authorities to support swimming facilities.

At the Budget, we announced a dedicated £63 million support package for swimming pools, which is targeted at addressing cost pressures facing public swimming pool providers. It will also help provide investment in energy efficiency measures to reduce future operating costs and make facilities sustainable in the long-term.

Details of the eligibility process will be published shortly, however, this fund will focus on those public swimming pool providers whose cost pressures are most acute, leaving them most vulnerable to closure. The Government intends for community and charitable trusts to be eligible to receive this funding. Sport England will manage a competitive application process and set out further detail on eligibility shortly.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
166278
Session
2022-23
Related items
Spring Budget 2023
Wednesday, 15 March 2023
House of Commons papers
House of Lords
House of Commons
Subjects
Energy Prices Swimming pools Leisure centres
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk